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Violet tapped her fingers on the table as she waited for her mother to return. To be entirely truthful, she was waiting for her stepmother. This was how Violet titled her in the privacy of her thoughts, even if most people insisted on referring to her simply as Violet's mother. Not that Violet disliked her stepmother, but sometimes she was left with the feeling that Elizabeth, the new Lady Carrick would have preferred not to be bothered with Violet's presence. Margaret was expecting Violet to come over and help with her wedding trousseau. But she was forced to wait and find out what else her stepmother wanted to tell her.
  She realized her mind had wandered when she was startled by Lady Carrick's appearance, trailed by three of the household's maids. "Mistress Lisle and her son Hereward will be visiting today" Lady Carrick announced "So I want you to wear one of your better dresses. If you put a little effort into impressing Hereward, he would probably ask to marry you." Violet's stomach turned itself into knots at the mention of Hereward's name. She shook her head to clear it of the picture that had formed of his dull gaze and pig-like pink eyes. "I've already promised to help Margaret with her sewing" Violet answered "The wedding is only months away and there is so much sewing yet to be done. I am sure that I reminded you yesterday". Lady Carrick pursed her lips and gave her stepdaughter a withering glare. "You could be preparing for your own wedding" she told Violet "But you find an excuse to be absent every time Mistress Lisle and her son visit. Her brother is Baron Whitemount, and Hereward is his heir apparent. One day you could be a baroness if you would just warm up to the boy." Violet drew up her courage and answered "dear mother, I have no desire to marry Hereward. There is little to no chance of him actually inheriting a barony, but I would not want to marry him even if it were certain." Lady Carrick shook her finger at Violet and said in a rising voice "You should think of improving your social position. Your father worries considerably about finding you a suitable marriage. He may just decide to order you to marry Hereward when I tell him of your willfulness!" Violet could stand no more. "Will you also tell him the stories that have told around town of the unnatural things that the servants have caught your precious Hereward doing? Or how the men say that Hereward has been banned from the riverfront taverns for nearly killing a couple of barmaids?" Lady Carrick's hand moved so fast that Violet had no time to dodge the blow. The sound of the open-handed slap echoed through the suddenly silent room. Her cheek stung like fire as Violet fled the room, and continued out the front door.

  Margaret's reaction when she saw Violet was proof that the hand print was still visible. She immediately took Violet's hand and led her into the drawing room where she and her mother had been sitting amidst enormous piles of fabric. Lady Wesley stood up in surprise when she saw the face of her daughter's friend. "What happened" she asked with her concern clear in her voice. Violet sank onto the nearest settle before she replied "I told my mother exactly how I felt about Hereward Lisle and she took offense." Lady Wesley sat down and instructed Violet "You had better start at the beginning and explain everything to me." Violet picked up a sleeve that she had started embroidering during her last visit. She related the entire episode with her stepmother as she worked her needle in a steady rhythm. When she finished her tale, the room fell silent except for the rustle of cloth. After a few moments Lady Wesley commented "I do not like this idea of marrying you off to Master Lisle. Your mother Lavender was one of my closest friends. I do not think she would have wanted you to marry such an ill-reputed man. Let us hope that since you have made your feelings clear that no more will come of it." Margaret nodded in agreement with her mother and added "That would certainly be a ghastly match." Basking in their assurances, Violet's spirits lifted. "You are certainly lucky with your betrothed" she directed at Margaret "Sir John is certainly one of the best mannered men I have met." Margaret's enthusiasm bubbled forth "And now that he has been appointed assistant to the Knight Harbinger, his future is secured at Court." Violet stopped and looked down before she said "I remember when we were much younger and we pretended that you would marry my brother Richard. It would have been nice to call you sister indeed." Lady Wesley reached out for Violet's hand and responded "Alas that your father had his sights on a more elusive prospect for your brother Richard." She sat back and picked up a spool of thread as she added "Though I gather that negotiations are not going well for any of Somerset's daughters. He seems to feel that their rank should make up for a lack of dowry." Margaret broke in with Sir John is more than happy with my dowry. Even if he does own his own property, my dower house will allow us to live a comfortable distance from the Court." Lady Wesley smiled and added "And allows me to see my grandchildren more frequently."

Lady Wesley's face grew serious as she said "What is a puzzle to me is that I see no benefit for your family if you marry Hereward." Violet answered without looking up from her work "Mother seems to think that Hereward will be Baron Whitemount's heir." Lady Wesley seemed to ponder this for a moment. When she spoke again she seemed even more puzzled "Baron Whitemount is young and has not even been wed a year. I think it highly unlikely that Hereward will inherit the Barony. I can see how this would be a desirable marriage from Mistress Lisle's view though. That your Great-Aunt Lilly left her estates entailed to you upon your marriage is common knowledge. It made your father angry enough that he cared not that the whole world knew that she left her estates to be managed by the Church and not by him." This time Violet looked up and a blush crept into her cheeks. "Father often enough reminded me" she said softly "Usually when he accused me of being as willful as Aunt Lilly." "Violet" Margaret spoke up "Has your half-brother George been mentioned at all?" Violet thought a moment before she answered "There has been no mention of him recently. Father has provided him with an allowance to study at Oxford. I think he planned for George to go into the Church and make a career there." Lady Wesley stood up at that moment and put away her sewing. "Well, we have chattered away enough time for today" she announced "We are having guests tonight from Sir John's family. It is time that Margaret and I prepared for that." They spent a few moments putting away needles and thread before Violet started to leave. "Please come again tomorrow!" Margaret called out to her before she disappeared up the stairs.

The family dinner that Violet sat through that evening was much less pleasant that her friend's dinner probably was. The Lisle family members were guests at dinner. Master Lisle grew progressively more silent as he worked his way to the bottom of his wine pitcher. Lord Carrick's efforts to engage that worthy gentleman in conversation gradually ceased as the ineffectiveness became apparent. Hereward's eyes were almost lost in his pale puffy face, but they followed Violet's every movement with the intensity of a ferret on the hunt. It seemed to Violet that Mistress Lisle and her stepmother studiously ignored her throughout the meal. Perhaps they thought that this would force her to make conversation with Hereward. But if this is what they hoped, it was doomed to failure. Violet's discomfort under Hereward's scrutiny gradually increased until she was unable to choke down her food. Slowly all conversation died until the room's quiet was only broken by the occasional clink of knife or plate. The servants had cleared away most of the dishes when Violet asked "May I be excused from table? I do not feel well and would like to go to bed." Her stepmother's mouth turned into a harsh frown in response. "It would be good manners for you to stay and help entertain our guests." She replied. "The child is obviously distressed" Lord Carrick thundered from the head of the table "let her go to bed. It is late and this dinner appears to be over anyway." He slammed his chair backwards when he stood up. After bestowing a disgusted glance on his cowed wife, he marched out of the room. His outburst surprised no one more than Violet, but she recovered enough to take advantage of the others' surprise and slip out of the room in the opposite direction.

Access to the wing of the house where the bedrooms were located meant going back through the main room where the table was. To avoid bringing herself back to her stepmother's notice, Violet retreated to one of her childhood hiding places. The cupboards built into the paneling near the front door had been much roomier when Violet was only seven. Now they barely afforded her room to sit down on an ancient chest stored there. She leaned back into a pile of musty drapery and let herself drift into a light doze. Barely minutes later, she was jolted awake when Master Lisle stumbled heavily against the cupboard door. By listening carefully she determined that Mistress Lisle was the last to leave. "I will bring him around to the idea of Violet's marriage to Hereward." Lady Carrick said in a low voice "The other will be taken care of as soon as they are married and Yardley Hall is signed over to George." "I know you will manage" Mistress Lisle replied "I just worry that further delay will give them time to produce a child. That would throw all our plans to the wind." Violet was so surprised by the mention of Yardley Hall that she almost missed what came next. "I will make sure that the betrothal contract is ready before the next fortnight passes" Lady Carrick said before the click of the closing door cut off her voice. After opening the cupboard just a crack, Violet peeked out to be sure that her stepmother had followed the Lisle family outside. When she was certain that she was alone in the entry, she dashed out and away. She didn't stop until she reached her tiny bedroom and had bolted the door.

As early as possible in the morning, Violet made her way to Margaret's house. Her friend was a little surprised to see her that early, but greeted her warmly nonetheless. "You will never believe what I overheard last night" she exclaimed breathlessly "My stepmother expects that Hereward will sign Yardley Hall over to her son George after my marriage." Margaret gasped and responded "In light of what Mother said last night, that makes a lot of this clearer. This is how Lady Carrick will benefit if you marry Hereward." Lady Wesley had entered the room in time to hear the last parts of this conversation. "I can only suppose your father is going along because it means that your half-brother George will be less of a drain on his purse." She shepherded the two girls into the drawing room before she spoke again. "If I remember correctly, your grandfather was a Vassal to the Earl of Northumberland. In all likelihood, at least some of your three dower properties fell under his jurisdiction. I must speak to Lord Wesley, but I think mayhap that you can place an appeal to Northumberland over your marriage and the settlement of your properties." Lady Wesley dismissed the maid who had accompanied her and sat silent until the girl had closed the door behind her. Lady Wesley continued to question Violet "Was there anything that was said about you". Violet screwed up her forehead in thought as she answered "I am not certain. My mother said something else had to be taken care of before someone had time to produce a child. I do understand how that could have referred to me, but it seems as if my mother and her friends have been making plans for some time." Lady Wesley looked relieved when Violet finished speaking. She stood up and told the two girls "I do not hear anything particularly sinister in that. But Mistress Lilly and the Late Lady Carrick would both be appalled to hear what is being planned for poor Violet. Not to mention the diversion of Mistress Lilly's legacy." She opened the door and paused before she left. "You two continue with your sewing. I will speak to Lord Wesley."

The two girls sat close together, Margaret's golden hair contrasting with Violet's raven-wing black. Margaret voice dropped to a whisper "Would you appeal to the Earl before you had to marry Hereward?" Violet's face paled and her hands trembled as she thought about the question. "Northumberland is so very far away. The thought of such a long and dangerous journey alone frightens me." Concern for her friend could be heard in Margaret's voice when she responded "Perhaps your father will not agree to the marriage. It seems that he is not over fond of Mistress Lisle or her son." Violet drew a deep breath and mustered her courage before she said "I hope for the best. But as much as I am afraid of going to Northumberland, I am more afraid of Hereward." She shuddered before she leaned in close to Margaret and continued "One day after Mistress Lisle had brought Hereward for a visit, I hid in the loft of the stable. I overheard the Master of the Horses talking to the head gardener. He said that one of tavern wenches refused to do something, unnatural is the word I think he used, for Hereward so he beat her nearly to death and forced her. He also said that since it was the second time the tavern keeper banned Hereward." The look of disgust on Margaret's face would have been plenty of answer but she also blurted out "I cannot imagine what Hereward must have done but from the sound of things it must have been sickening. The only thing you had told me before was the story your maid told about him torturing the dogs with a hot poker. Small wonder that you would be afraid to marry him." Violet shuddered again and then shook her head to clear her thoughts. "Let's not speak of him anymore" she pleaded "I would much rather talk about your upcoming wedding. Has your father engaged a cook for the banquet?" "Yes he has actually" Margaret replied with a sidelong glance at Violet "Father says we were lucky to get him since he will later be handling the Duke of Buckingham's Twelfth Night Feast. Italian cooks are in demand now with anyone who wants to make an impression."  Margaret laughed before she continued "Father is glad now that he signed the contract months ago. Lord Eresby tried to hire the Italian and now he is asking twice as much in wages."

When Violet was almost home later that evening, she stopped in her tracks when she saw her stepmother on the street. It was not the sight of Lady Carrick that stopped her, but the fact that she was speaking to a man who was half-hidden in the shadow of an over-hanging balcony. A cold knot formed in her stomach when she saw herb stepmother pass him a small leather bag. Instinctively she knew that Lady Carrick would not want this scene witnessed by her stepdaughter. This meant that Violet turned and ducked back around the nearest corner. She leaned against the timber wall until her breathing slowed and her heart ceased to pound. When she was reasonably certain that her stepmother had concluded her business, Violet stepped back onto the lane and continued her journey home. There were no guests for dinner that night, but it was a quiet dinner even so. Violet had steeled herself for another round of Hereward's virtues, so she was pleasantly surprised to be spared. In her own mind she decided that it was her father's temper that had tied her stepmother's tongue. More than once her father's black eyes and quick anger had prompted a comparison with the devil. If he had become angry at something, it was usually safer to keep silent on that subject for several days.

The next morning Violet was busy with lessons from her music teacher. At one time, Lady Carrick had entertained hopes that Violet could be placed as a lady-in-waiting to the queen. The King's well known parsimony had eventually shown those hopes to be in vain. The last vestige of her effort to prepare Violet for Court life was the music teacher. The Latin and French tutors had been dismissed as soon as George was old enough to ship off to Oxford. By the time the lessons were done, it was too late for a trip to visit Margaret. So Violet decided to go down to the laundress's closet and see if any of her own chemises and house gowns needing repairing. Usually there was some seam or hem that needed attention. Today was no exception, even though there were not many simply because Violet did not own that many garments. She was returning to her room with an armful when she glimpsed Mistress Lisle in the main room. Not surprised, she recognized her stepmother's voice as it came from a part of the room that was out of sight. The urge to avoid Mistress Lisle was strong enough to hasten Violet's pace until she heard her own name. Frozen in place she heard clearly "I will make sure he gets the second half of his fee tomorrow. But you make sure that Hereward marries Violet after his uncle is dead and he is Baron. Do not renege on my payment." Unfortunately, at that moment Violet's scissors fell from her basket and clattered to the floor.

  In desperation Violet backed up and slammed open the hallway door as if she had just came from there. The tiny scissors were easily hidden under her foot. Lady Carrick's white face under her mouse-brown hair looked out into the hallway at Violet. "I am s-so sorry" Violet stammered "I did not mean to open the door so forcefully. I apologize if I startled you." The color gradually crept back into Lady Carrick's face, but she still looked suspicious when she replied "Be more careful in the future. There was no damage done but you did startle Mistress Lisle and myself." After Violet dropped her eyes to the floor, her stepmother turned and went back out of the hall. With a sigh of relief, Violet quickly grabbed her scissors and ran all the way to her room. She did not see her stepmother again until dinner. There was one guest for dinner that evening, a gentleman. From what Violet could surmise from the conversation between him and her father, he was the owner of several river barges. Lord Carrick was trying to arrange favorable terms for shipping wool from one of his estates. Their animated conversation, fueled by quantities of wine, meant that Violet and her stepmother were forced to remain silent. At first Violet thought that perhaps Lady Carrick had convinced herself that Violet had not heard the conversation with Mistress Lisle earlier. But the looks that her stepmother bestowed on her throughout the evening grew gradually darker and more ominous. By the time she excused herself to go to bed, Violet was convinced that her stepmother knew that she had been overheard planned dire consequences for Violet.

  As soon as the scullery maids were up and moving around, Violet let herself out of the house. Muffled in her cloak against the early morning chill, she hurried to her friend, Margaret. A surprised maid let her in and showed her to the empty drawing room. The light coming in the window was noticeably brighter by the time a boy brought hot coals for the brazier. It was later still when Lady Wesley appeared at the door. "It would be an understatement to say that your arrival this early means something unusual has happened" Lady Wesley said in a slightly anxious voice. Violet shivered and hugged her cloak around her before she replied "I d-do apologize. But I did not have anyone else to turn to." Turning to the hallway, Lady Wesley called "Mary, have the cook send some hot cider in here and send word to Lord Wesley that he is needed posthaste." Lady Wesley seated herself in her usual chair and told Violet "We will wait for Lord Wesley so that he can hear the entire tale." A disheveled Margaret came in followed by a maid with a steaming pot and earthenware cups. After she had served them all Lady Wesley instructed "leave the pot, Mary. I will serve his lordship myself when he arrives." The maid bowed and shut the door as she left the room. The three of them sat and sipped their drinks in silence. The warmth of the cider and the brazier coals slowly penetrated Violet's fear inspired chill. She had just let her cloak fall from her shoulders when Lord Wesley entered the room.

  Lord Wesley was a golden bear of a man who dominated any room he entered. His eye fell on Violet and she flushed under the steady gaze. "Mistress Violet, please tell me what has prompted this early morning disruption of my household." He commanded in a firm tone. Violet's heart quailed in her chest but she gathered every bit of her courage and spoke "This all started when my stepmother started to press the idea of a marriage between myself and Hereward Lisle. I think my father resisted the idea because Hereward will inherit practically nothing. For myself, I resisted because I have formed a dislike for him." Lord Wesley involuntary snort surprised Violet momentarily. It seemed that Lord Wesley had heard as much, or more of Hereward's character than Violet had. After a pause, Violet continued "Then I overheard my stepmother discussing a bargain she had made with Mistress Lisle. When I was forced to marry Hereward, a portion of my inheritance from my great aunt would be signed over to my half-brother George." Lord Wesley leaned forward in his chair and his expression grew more intent. He seemed on the point of speaking, so Violet waited to see what he would say. He merely waived his hand impatiently for her to finish. "I spoke with Lady Wesley and Margaret about this, but there did not seem to be anything particularly sinister about their plans. They appeared to be merely dishonest. Then one evening on my way home, I saw my stepmother hand a leather satchel to a strange man with whom she had been speaking." She took a sip of cider to ease her dry throat. No one stirred before Violet spoke again "Later I heard my stepmother speaking to Mistress Lisle and she told her that she would make the second half of the payment for Baron Whitemount's death. She also warned Mistress Lisle against betraying their agreement concerning Yardley Hall after my marriage to Hereward Lisle."

The stunned silence that followed those last few sentences stretched out until broken by Lord Wesley. "In truth" he said "A great many other things are explained by this. According to my Steward, Master Lisle has bought up a much larger quantity of ale and wine than has been his wont heretofore. This circumstance only came to my attention because of the problems in victualling for Margaret's wedding." He turned then to Violet and asked "Does Lady Carrick know what you heard?" Violet shrank into her seat before she answered "I believe so, but I am not certain. She saw me in the hallway after they had finished speaking but I tried to make it seem that I had just come from the laundresses closet." Lord Wesley stroked his beard as he pondered this bit of information. His wife touched his arm and entreated him "We cannot let the child go back to that house." After he exchanged a look with Lady Wesley, he questioned Violet "What do you think that Lady Carrick will do if you do go back?" The thoughts that raced through Violet's head meant she had to swallow hard before she replied "At the very least I believe she will arrange for Hereward to force me. After that my father would feel he would have no choice but to agree to a wedding." Lord Wesley's eyebrows had crept up his forehead a little, but what she said next left him wide-eyed "No matter if he gets me with child though, I fear that evil would befall Baron Whitemount and I would not long survive my marriage vows." Lord Wesley stood and looked down at Violet for some moments. His shoulders sagged as he turned to Lady Wesley "My lady" he began "What I did not add earlier was that the Steward has surmised that Master Lisle is deeply in debt. Master Lisle's expenses continue to increase unabated, that is either symptom or cause of this mad plot." He paused and looked to his wife as he added "Baron Whitemount has refused any further loans to his half-sister, Mistress Lisle."

  Many pieces of the puzzle started coming together in Violet's mind. Her thoughts were interrupted when Lord Wesley spoke again "If the girl disappears from the house, I am sure Lady Carrick will search here first. I know that you suggested she appeal to Northumberland, but we will need to hide her somewhere until that can be arranged." He stopped and his eye traveled to the maid who had served the cider. She had crept back in with a fresh pot, and she froze as she saw the look in his eye. "Servants invariably talk" Lord Wesley commented "So this one will have to be bundled away with Mistress Violet. Keep them both close in here until I find a place where they can be moved." Lady Wesley interjected "Can we not appeal to the king? I mislike sending her so far away" His face became grimmer as he answered "If she appeals to the king first, she will become his ward. You know how much is said of him. I fear once under the king's hand, Mistress Violet would see neither husband, nor inheritance." Lady Wesley reluctantly nodded agreement to her husband before he turned and left. She took Violet's hand and told her "We will do all that we can to see that you make it to Northumberland safely. Do not be afraid." Violet gave her a tremulous smile in return. Margaret sighed and said "If it was not for such a dire reason, I would almost wish to go with you since you are my best friend." Violet's smile turned genuine as she replied "Of course you do not. Your wedding date is too soon to allow for that. And as you are my friend I would not see that postponed"

Lord Wesley was as true as his word. Later that day he returned with a man who was unknown to Violet. The tall slender man with just a touch of gray in his hair stood quietly as Lord Wesley spoke. Violet also listened as he told Lady Wesley "Sir Edward has agreed to house the girl and the maid until arrangements can be made for them to travel to Northumberland."  He then gestured towards Violet and explained "He has brought with him two maids in cloaks. The cloaks will be exchanged and he will be seen to leave with his two maids. The household will understand the reason for the maids since he has brought some goodly fabrics as a wedding present for our Margaret." Lady Wesley's face grew serious as she asked "How then shall his maids leave unremarked?" He answered "During the night, I shall escort them out myself when no one is likely to see. But it is time now to be about it." Violet and the maid donned the cloaks. Bowing low before them, Violet told her benefactors "Thank you very much for aiding me in my hours of need. I pray that you have not put yourselves in any danger on my account." Lord Wesley nodded his acceptance and his Lady gave Violet a brief embrace before gently urging her to follow the silent Sir Edward out of the house.

Sir Edward led them to the river. In exchange for a few coins, the bargeman took them downstream to a block stone landing. The climb up the bank revealed a section of town made up of modest frame dwellings. Many of these had shops, or workshops on the ground floor. A fair sized house and courtyard at the end of one road proved to be their destination. In passing Violet noted that it was only slightly smaller on the outside than her father's house. Sir Edward stopped to unlock the outer door. "I sent the cook and his helpers out to the market. I do not keep many servants" Sir Edward spoke unexpectedly "I told them that I would be housing relatives of a foreign ambassador." He led Violet and the maid to a suite on the second floor. He continued to explain "I have given you my own rooms, which is what the servants would expect. It is very important that you pretend to speak no English." Wide-eyed Violet only nodded. Sir Edward turned to the maid and asked "Girl, what is your name?" Surprised at being addressed she stammered "M-Mary, good sir." "Very well Mary" he told her "it is worth your life to play your part. No matter what you hear the servants say you must not let them know that you understand English." This time the maid, Mary, also nodded vigorously. Just before he closed the door on the two girls, he added "Hopefully you will only be here for a day or two. Your meals will be brought up to you." The door closed with what seemed to be ominous finality to Violet's overwrought nerves.

  It was much later in the evening when two women brought in some dishes. The aroma that came from under the dish covers set Violet's stomach to growling. She looked sheepishly at Mary and saw that she had the same reaction. Both women looked askance at Violet and Mary as they set out the meal. True to their instructions, neither Violet nor Mary attempted to speak to the women, even to thank them for the food. Violet had a hard time keeping a straight face when she heard what they said on their way out. One of the women whispered "The young one dinna half look a doxie. Ent she's got a maid wit' her. I tole you the marster wunno bring a doxie 'ere to his own rooms." When it seemed certain that the women would not return, Violet happily began to eat. When she saw that the maid was hesitant she told her "Do not stand on ceremony on my account. We may be trapped in this room together for days. And I know you are as hungry as I am."
Their dinner turned out to be mostly stew, bread and cheese, but it was very welcome. After they had eaten every scrap of food, Violet aimlessly wandered about the rooms. "I do not believe that our good host is married" she mused aloud "I see nothing here such as a lady might use. Nor are there women's clothes in the closet." Mary held up a dirty fingertip and commented "Nor would a lady allow the chambermaids to leave so much dust behind. Men never notice dust until its thick enough to leave footprints in." Violet dropped heavily into the nearest stool. "I wish I had been able to bring some sewing" she sighed "It will be hard to sit here for days with nothing to do." Mary quickly walked up to Violet and said "I have a bit of rag in my pocket. We can tear that up into small bits to use like coins. The good Knight has a pair of dice here on the sideboard. It's not much, but it will help pas the time." Impulsively Violet hugged Mary and replied "You are a godsend. Let's see what games we both know."

By the end of the third day, Violet and Mary were heartily sick of dice games. They were also heartily sick of the clothes they were wearing. The maids came in every day and dutifully made up the bed and the trundle, and brought meals for the girls. But there was no other break in their routine. After breakfast on the fourth day, Mary answered a knock on the door to admit Sir Edward. His face was a welcome sight merely as a relief to tedium. The chest that he brought proved to contain something even more welcome, clothes. "Lady Wesley sent these along for you" he told them "Two changes of clothes for Mistress Violet and one change of clothes for Mary. I have given orders for the bathing chamber to be made ready." A crooked smile brightened his face when he saw Violet's pleased reaction. "You will be leaving this house later today" he continued "Your journey north has been arranged. Be ready to travel as soon as you may." Violet impulsively took his hand. With a heartfelt sigh, she told him "Thank you for all that you have done for me. If ever I am in a position to repay you, I shall." Sir Edward blinked in surprise and squeezed her hand in his. In a slightly huskier voice he responded "It has been my pleasure to help Lord Wesley and yourself." He looked down at Violet's small pale hand for a moment before he released it to step backwards. Without another word he turned and left the room.

  The household maids came up sometime later to summon Violet and Mary to the bathing room. Violet hid her amusement at their attempts to communicate by pantomime. She managed to remain silent through the entire process of disrobing and bathing. That activity as simple as it was, took far longer than it did to pack her meager possessions. Violet elected to abandon the dress she had worn for nearly a week, while Mary kept hers. The dice had been returned to their original resting place. Then there was nothing to do but wait. A light mid-day meal was brought up. But anxiety over the upcoming journey left Violet barely able to eat. She forced down as much food as she could over the butterflies in her stomach. Mary appeared untroubled as she ate her meal. When no one appeared after the meal, they sat down to wait again. In the window seat, Violet leaned back to rest her head against the wall. To her surprise, she drifted into a light doze and was startled awake when the door opened. Sir Edward directed the man with him to take the small chest with the spare clothes. He waved for the girls to follow him, which they jumped to do. In short order they were out of the house and reached the street. Outside the front gate waited a cloth-covered cart drawn by two horses, with a driver on the front.

Two brown-haired young men leading horses walked out from behind the cart. "My Lords" Sir Edward spoke "This is the lady and her maid who will be travelling with you." At first glance Violet took the two men to be as alike as peas in a pod. But the second look revealed one to be older than the other. The younger stepped forward and took Violet's hand. With a twinkle in his eye he said "It will be my pleasure to play Knight Errant and guard such a lovely lady." He winked at her and added "Even though she be travelling incognito, I shall call her my fair Rosamonde." Violet blushed to the tips of her toes. The older man gave the younger a forceful nudge and told him "Brother, you are embarrassing the lady and yourself as well." He smiled down at Violet and added "My brother fancies himself to be a poet. I hope you will excuse his atrocious behavior." His brown eyes also twinkled with merriment, but less impish type. A quick glance back revealed that Sir Edward's expression had grown stormy, but he did not speak. When Violet had collected herself enough to speak she replied "I am thankful for the escort. Your.....brother has done no harm by his humor." The small chest was placed in the cart. Sir Edward stepped forward to help Violet up into the cart as well. "Farewell and safe journey" was all that he said. He slipped away before Violet could reply. Inside the cart, she sat down on a cushion across from Mary. Soon after the cart lurched forward and they were on their way.

The rough streets rocked and jolted Violet in the back of the carriage. For some time she worried that her whereabouts had been discovered. At any moment she expected the cart to be stopped and she would be dragged out into the street. But as the rough cobblestones of the city gave way to slightly less rough country roads, her fears slowly subsided. The driver and the other servant kept their attention on the road and made no effort to speak to either Violet or the maid. Of course Violet would have been surprised if they had. She smiled halfheartedly when she remembered that Sir Edward had halfway introduced her as a Lady. Violet was surprised to find that the trip so far was not as uncomfortable as she assumed it would be. In fact, the slight rocking motion of the cart lulled her into a state of yawning sleepiness. By the time darkness fell, Violet was fast asleep on her cushions. The cessation of motion roused Violet when the cart stopped. The younger of the two brothers threw open the curtains at the back of the cart and called out "Fair Rosamonde, your palace awaits." His outstretched hand invited Violet to climb down from the wagon. After she stepped down, the older brother explained "We will shelter tonight in this monastery and be off early tomorrow." To clear her eyes of sleep, Violet blinked in the gate's poor light. "Wait" she called out "Can you give me a name to know you by." His expression was hidden by shadow as he answered "Nay, Sir Edward deemed it safer for all to remain nameless. He told us you traveled under great peril." Violet's shoulders sagged in resignation. Then she responded "Then I shall call you Arthur and your brother shall be Kay." An involuntary chuckle escaped his lips, and then he told her "That will suffice, though I esteem myself not so highly as to deserve such a name." He then surrendered her and Mary to the waiting monks who would lead them to their chambers.

  A restless night on a hard pallet had not left Violet in a good mood. After breakfast she splashed herself and waited for the brothers in the courtyard of the monastery. 'Arthur' and 'Kay' made their appearance before she had waited too long. Mary carried with her a basket with some food and wine for their midday meal. By its weight it was apparent that the monks had been generous. Violet was embarrassed that she had no coin to leave for alms in return. Once Violet was ensconced in the back of the cart, the men on their horses led the way back to the road. A light mist started to fall almost as soon as they were out of sight of the monastery's walls. It brought cold with it, which meant that Arthur and Kay pulled heavy cloaks from their baggage. The manservant and the driver wrapped themselves with a oilskins, while Violet and Mary made themselves comfortable in wool blankets that they found among the cushions. The rain had ceased when they stopped for a mid-day break. But the cold air was thick with the promise of more rain. Arthur passed an earthenware cup of wine to Violet and then commented "The rain kept us to a slower pace than I would have liked. As it is, we will barely make the next monastery before nightfall." "We can be on our way as soon as you wish" Violet replied as she sipped from the cup "I do not need to rest any longer." He gave a rueful chuckle as he took back the cup. "The horses do need a bit more rest though" he explained "The wet road tires them badly." Violet noticed that Kay huddled silently in the shelter of a nearby tree and ate his meal. He was not as mischievous as he had been yesterday. The cold wet ride had dampened his spirits. So she called over to him "How now gallant knight? Does a little rain make you lose all your poetry?" Kay's face broke into a smile and he replied "A kind word from my fair lady does restore it." Arthur smiled at his brother's mood change. It suddenly dawned on Violet that when they genuinely smiled, the two brothers were very handsome indeed.

  Soon enough Arthur decreed that it was time to resume their travel. Violet and Mary spent the cold afternoon huddled in blankets up to their eyes. Just at sunset their pace quickened. From a crack in the cart's covering, Violet could see the walls of an abbey outlined against the grey twilit sky. Once again there were monks to guide them to sleeping chambers. The only difference from the previous night was that Violet was so tired and cold that she slept like a stone. When she awoke the coals in the brazier were barely glowing. With Mary's help, she changed into her second gown in order that the other might receive an airing. When it was time to reload the cart, Violet was shaken by what Arthur said "This will be our last day traveling together. I will tell you more where there are fewer ears to hear." He let drop the curtain before Violet could bring herself to react or speak. That morning's ride was no less cold than the previous had been. But Violet's anxiety over what would happen to her returned in full force as she pondered the uncertainty of her next steps. When they stopped to rest the horses at mid-day, Arthur walked with her away from the hearing of the servants. Without preamble he explained "Tonight we leave you at the country seat of Lord Horton. I know no more than that." He held out a sealed envelope to Violet and added "Give this to Lord Horton personally, no one else." He said no more, but walked back to the cart to finish his meal. First tucking the envelope safely into her bodice, Violet followed him.

During the rest of the day Violet spent some time in thought. The speed at which her life had changed had bewildered her. She thought to herself how strange she found all this. Just one month ago she would have not believed anyone who told her that she would be traveling north across England with total strangers. Even the maid who was her erstwhile chaperone and companion was only a name to her. And tonight she would sleep in the house of Lord Horton, who was a total cipher. As the light outside grew dimmer, rain fell intermittently on the fabric roof of the cart. It seemed to Violet that Mary was unusually quiet even for a maid. But she remembered Sir Edward's final words to them and decided that Mary was frightened. Whether of Violet herself, or of knowing too much, she could not tell. Thy sky was still a pale gray when the cart lurched to a halt. Violet could see a stone wall with an open gate. Then she noticed the two armed men who conversed with the two brothers. After a short exchange, they waved the cart in through the gate. The ride from the gate to the house was not long, though it seemed interminable to Violet. When the cart was still, she opened the back curtains to see Arthur's face. He helped her clamber down as a butler opened the door and came outside. "My lady" he said in a low voice "we part here. My brother and I have another destination this night. But it has been my pleasure to be of service." A quick glance to her right showed Kay's unusually solemn face. "I have no words to express my gratitude" Violet responded "You have done more for me than I had any right to expect from a total stranger." Just a hint of a smile touched Arthur's face as he said "Just the memory of you calling me Arthur is all the reward that I could ask." His warm brown eyes lingered for a moment before he turned away and mounted his horse. The two men started for the gate at a trot with the cart following. Violet found herself standing outside a house she had never seen before with her small chest of clothes, Mary and the butler.

Violet turned and looked the house over. It was a wide red brick front with a timbered second story. There was no light visible from the small windows on the upper floor. The butler called out to Violet "My lady, please come inside and I will announce you to his lordship." Violet nodded and walked in through the door just as a small boy darted out and picked up her chest. They all followed the butler deep inside the house to a wide open room. A long sideboard covered with plate lined one wall, while benches lined the opposite wall. "My lady" the butler addressed Violet "Please be seated. I am sure that his lordship will call for you shortly." After looking dubiously at the hard wooden benches, Violet chose one and sat. Mary hesitated before she gingerly sat on another bench. The fireplace at one end crackled merrily and gave out very welcome warmth. The cold had just faded from Violet's hand and feet when the butler returned. "I will take you to see his lordship now." He told her "There is no need for your maid to accompany you. She will be taken to the servant's quarters." He walked away without waiting so Violet jumped up and hurried after him. Two doorways and a short hall led them to a well lit chamber Inside sat the oldest man that Violet had ever seen. Pale, wrinkled and bald, he still sat erect in his padded chair.

Since she assumed this was the mysterious Lord Horton, Violet immediately dropped into a bow. "I see the girl has manners" he chuckled in a surprisingly strong voice "Come closer child and sit. I have not been a threat to any lady in many years." He pointed at a chair near his right, Violet sat down and perched herself on the edge of the seat. The old man leaned back with his hands steepled in front of him. The desk he sat next to was covered in papers, a pen and an inkwell. "I received the strangest request from William.......Lord Wesley." He began "He said that a nameless maiden would come my way needing to get to Northumberland. He also said that she would have dire business with the Earl and there were those who might seek to prevent her." He paused and waited for Violet's reaction. Several minutes had elapsed when he continued "However much I cannot imagine what dire business a pretty black-haired girl might be involved in. I am prepared to take Wil...Lord Wesley's word on the matter. I have known him since he was a boy, you know. He is only a little older than my grandson." A knock on the door interrupted Lord Horton at this point. "Entrez Vous!" he called out. The door creaked open and two men in dark livery came in bearing a two tray tables laden with food and drink. One table was set in front of Lord Horton, the other in front of Violet. Golden yellow wine was poured into Italian glass goblets and set on the tables. The two men bowed and withdrew from the room. After the door had closed Lord Horton explained "I rarely eat in the dining hall these days. My grandson is always at Court and I have outlived everyone else." Surprised at her own temerity, Violet blurted out "You live here all alone? How can you stand it?" She clapped her hands over her mouth but Lord Horton surprised her by laughing out loud. It went on for some time and when his laughter subsided he wiped a tear from his eye. "My dear child" he said "Most people I have known in my life think that a man my age should enjoy my retirement out here with none but my books to keep me company." He paused for a moment to catch his breath. "I suppose that is why I agreed to William's request." He finally added "I wanted to see a new face." He picked up his wineglass and took a generous drink. He gestured at Violet with the glass and ordered "Eat! My cook will be unbearable for weeks if that plate goes back untouched" His smile softened the words. Feeling her hunger at last, Violet devoured the delicious hot food.

When they were finished eating, the butler reappeared with the other servants. Lord Horton watched as the dishes and tables were cleared away. While the servants were busy, he told Violet "I find is well for me to retire early these days. Master Stephen will show you to your chambers." Violet stood up to follow Master Stephen, the butler, when Lord Horton spoke again "I hope you will not find me presumptuous that I have given instruction for some of my daughter's gowns to be brought out and given to you." Violet blushed from embarrassment that she her wardrobe depended on the kindness of others. She dropped her eyes to the floor and murmured "My Lord, you do me too much honor. I have already presumed on your hospitality too much out of necessity." She glanced up to check his reaction. The grave look on the old man's face was belied by the twinkle in his eyes. "From what was reported to me of the paucity of your baggage, it would appear that bandits have made off with your goods. It would be a shame to me if I sent you from here to Northumberland's Seat in insufficient state." Violet bowed to the inevitable and gave Lord Horton a curtsey and her thanks. Master Stephen, who had waited silently in the doorway, led her back to the main room and up a stairway. The door to the first chamber stood open and Mary waited inside. An empty sideboard, a washstand with basin, and two padded benches were all the furniture that the room contained. Violet survey of the room was interrupted by the butler's voice. "Shall I have your breakfast sent up in the morning, milady?" he inquired "His Lordship does not rise until late morning." Unsure exactly what she should do Violet answered hesitantly "Yes, that would be fine." Master Stephen closed the chamber door behind him. As if the butler's absence were permission for Mary to speak she told Violet "Mistress, you should see the bedchamber. I could hardly believe the evidence of my own eyes." She opened a door that Violet had not previously noticed and revealed another chamber beyond.

Several fat candles, as well as a good sized fireplace, bathed the room in radiance. Inside was the large bed, which seemed to Violet to be twice the size of her parents' bed. Curtains of a rich red color were pulled open around the bed frame of dark wood. Then she saw the other part that had amazed Mary. A nightgown of fine lawn lay on the bed, but beyond that was the wardrobe closet. Its doors stood open to reveal several gowns of plush soft velvet. Violet walked around the bed for a closer examination. She determined that there were two gowns of black velvet and one of a blue so dark it was almost black. The gowns were simple, without fancy adornments, and slightly old-fashioned but of much finer stuff than Violet had seen outside of her friend Margaret's wedding trousseau. The magnitude of Lord Horton's gift left her weak in the knees. She went back into the other room to splash some water on her face. When she returned she saw that Mary had pulled out a trundle bed for herself to sleep on. Violet knew that it was now fully dark outside, so it was unsurprising that she felt the need for sleep. She exchanged her rather old chemise for the nightgown and slipped between the soft linen sheets. Before Mary had even put out all of the candles, Violet was fast asleep.

  Violet awoke in darkness and did not remember where she was. After her initial panic, her dinner with Lord Horton the previous night resurfaced in her memory. She slid out of the giant bed and padded silently over to the window. The heavy brocade drapes covered a window through which the first pale sliver of dawn could be seen. Mary was awakened by Violet's movements, so she got out of her bed quickly. While Mary set the bedclothes straight, Violet looked more closely at the other items in the clothes chest. Everything necessary for a Lady's wardrobe had been included. With a slight twinge of guilt, she chose one of the black velvet gowns and Mary helped her to dress. The bedchamber had access only to a prayer closet and a small privy, so Violet guessed that bathing chambers were elsewhere in the house. It was still very early when a knock came rapping on the door of the outer chamber. Mary answered this to admit several servants with breakfast dishes. Master Stephen supervised the servants as they set the tables and set out the food. "His Lordship asked me to convey a message to you" he said to Violet "Since it may be some days before your escort arrives, he has asked that you avail yourself of the house and gardens to your pleasure. If you have any needs, you can make the request through me." Feeling out of her depth, Violet replied in what she hoped was a gracious tone "Thank you Master Stephen. And please convey my thanks to Lord Horton for his overwhelming generosity". With a slight nod of acknowledgement, he left Violet to her repast.

  The thought occurred to Violet that she had willingly let herself be shuffled from one spot to another. The two brothers who had brought her this far had considered it all a romantic and adventurous game. Lord Horton's overwhelming generosity probably owed something to his past association with Lord Wesley. But Violet could only guess at the extent of his true intentions. The novelty of traveling had put thoughts of her stepmother and Mistress Lisle right of Violet's mind. Since she was left to her own devices inside this great echoing house, they came back in a flood. She did not dare to guess what her stepmother's reaction would be to her disappearance. Mentally she tallied up the time. Six nights meant a week since she had last seen her father. Violet was sure that his first reaction would have been anger. How soon would that anger have turned to concern? What would he do to find her? The shocked, sick feeling that Violet had felt when she first discovered that her stepmother was capable of hiring an assassin was something she would never forget. It also left her with the cold certainty that her stepmother would hire someone to find her. Find her, and probably silence her also. Against the fear that threatened to overwhelm her, Violet clung to the hope that Lord and Lady Wesley's assistance would keep her safe.

  For several days Violet spent most of her time with only Mary for company, except in the evenings. Lord Horton asked that she dine with him. Even though they had dined in his presence chamber on the night of Violet's arrival, thereafter, dinner was served in the main room. Violet was apprehensive about such formal dinners. She felt acutely that she was a less than glamorous dinner companion. Perhaps he sensed this, for Lord Horton talked mainly of everyday things such as any family might discuss. He talked of his son and how Lord Wesley had come to be his squire. He only hinted at the most recent wars and the manner in which his son had died. It was not difficult to see that even many years later, that this was a painful subject for Lord Horton. One evening he surprised Violet when he suddenly asked "If you do not wish to marry this knave that your mother has proposed, is there some other lad who has caught your eye?" Violet blinked and answered before she considered her words "I had not been aware how much you had known of my situation. But no, there is no other boy or man that I would like to marry." Lord Horton seemed a trifle pleased at her answer. "Said well enough I suppose" he commented "I only knew what William felt that it was safe to say in a message. But I warrant there is more to the tale now that I have gotten to know you." Violet dropped her gaze and responded "I was charged to keep as silent as I may, for my safety as well as that of others." He nodded in response and reassured her "I will not press to know more than you would tell. But upon that one point I was determined to satisfy my own curiosity." He then changed the subject to the coming Advent season, much to Violet's relief.

  An unusually sunny afternoon led Violet out into the gardens after she had been at this house nearly two weeks. She had a book of prayer with her but it lay unread on her lap as she enjoyed the rare warmth on her face. The crunching sound of footsteps on the gravel walk brought her attention back to her surroundings. Lord Horton, leaning on his cane, led a much younger man towards her. She knew Lord Horton well enough by now to know that recognize the anger that clouded her face. "Milady" he addressed her "I am afraid that the day of our parting is close at hand." He gave Violet a rueful smile at her reaction. "I had hoped to send you on your way better guarded" he continued "The unusually heavy rains in the south have delayed a major portion of the men that I had intended to accompany you, at least according to this soldier." The last part of the comment led Violet to look more closely at the second man. He was middling size and height with hair of a non-descript brown. He was also much older than he had looked at first. Up close, his face was lined and browned by outdoor life. Lord Horton leaned heavily on his cane and looked up at the sky. "I do believe this weather will hold" he commented "So it is my considered opinion that you stay until morning." With a significant side look at the other man, Lord Horton added "The extra time might be spent towards our favor." Master Stephen had come up the walk from the house and waited just a few steps away. Lord Horton waived him over and instructed "Settle the sergeant and his men in somewhere. Mistress will be leaving in the morning. You know what preparations need to be made." Then he swung his cane around and limped towards the house with the two other men in tow.

  It was not yet dawn when Violet awoke with a start. It seemed to her that the morning passed in only moments before she stood outside ready to leave. The cart that would carry her on the next leg of her journey held considerably more baggage than she had arrived with. An involuntary smile crossed her face as she remembered last night's conversation with Lord Horton. Barely had she convinced Lord Horton not to send more maids with her in addition to Mary. The sergeant had looked relieved when Lord Horton had finally acquiesced. It was plain that he did not relish guarding a cart and a herd of women with only his squad of five men. Mary helped Violet dress and they went downstairs where the entire household had breakfast. That Lord Horton did not appear was not a surprise to Violet. According to his repeated complaints, cold mornings were hard on his legs. What did surprise Violet was the fact that only the sergeant had a horse. The other men would accompany the cart on foot. There was no reason for a lingering farewell, so they did get an early start. Two men sat on the driving seat, one with a crossbow on his lap. The rest of the men took turns walking along the sides of the cart. It was going to be a long ride and Violet was well aware of that fact. However, they had not gone far when one the men who were walking started singing. Moments later the rest of the men picked up the tune. A few times the tune faltered when it came to some of the more ribald lyrics. Violet was not entirely certain what some of the lyrics meant, but periodically the singing would stop clumsily and a different song would start. Some of the fumbled songs made Mary's face blush, which led Violet to wonder about her past, just a little.

The sergeant called a halt when it was still light outside. Violet wondered what had caused him to stop so early. As if in response to her thought, he poked his head through the curtains and announced "It looks to rain soon. So we will get off the road and into shelter before it starts." The group of men went about their jobs quickly amid cheerful banter. Violet and Mary happily left the cart and stretched their legs. A half-pavilion was set up alongside the cart. This would allow the men not on guard duty a chance to get out of the rain when it came. True to the sergeant's predictions, a steady drizzle started not long after everything was set up for the night. The cooking fire popped and hissed when the rain hit the flaming logs. The afternoon light faded, and left the air feeling colder in addition to the wet. After she had finished her dinner of a thick porridge, Violet clambered back into the cart and prepared to sleep. The steady drum of the rain on canvas was almost hypnotic and lulled her to sleep quickly.

It was still raining when Violet awoke the next morning. Cold bread and meat were the breakfast that the group shared. When they started back on the road, the men walking kept to the edges as much as possible. The rain had made the claylike soil of the road into a treacherous path. One slip could mean a sprained ankle, or worse. It seemed to be a small mercy to Violet when the rain stopped after mid-day. The manner of the men became noticeably more cheerful when they could stand and eat without being soaked further. When the cart started again, Mary hesitantly asked Violet "How much further do we have to go? I have never been this far from home." For an answer Violet spread her hands helplessly and said "I cannot tell. I know it is far to the north but no one has ever told me how many days." Mary settled back and shivered in her blanket. Violet felt a brief twinge of guilt at Mary's enforced journey, until she reasoned that the girl's duties would have been much heavier had she remained behind.

The clouds darkened until afternoon was hardly lighter than dusk. The rain had gotten so heavy that the walking men no longer had the energy for singing. A thud louder than the pouring rain caught Violet's attention. She turned towards the front of the car to see the driver fall slowly backwards through the curtain, a crossbow bolt sprouting from his throat. Without hesitation, Violet pushed the screaming Mary out of the back of the cart.
One of the soldiers lay dead against the back wheel, two arrows in his neck and shoulder. Violet shoved Mary under the cart with the intention of hiding there. Then she slipped in the mud and fell at the edge of the road. She caught a glimpse of dirty faced men in rough clothing in the trees opposite her. Her attempt to stand sent her over the steep embankment and in a roll down the ravine. Violet flailed helplessly as she tumbled and fell through the wet foliage. She was dazed when she finally came to a stop at the bottom. Her hood had come off somewhere during her wild descent and her wet black hair hung in tangles around her face. With some effort Violet pulled herself into a sitting position against a tree trunk. After a quick inspection, she was pleased to find that the heavy fabric of her dress was intact. Her body felt like a mass of bruises, but Violet knew she had to get up and start moving.  If the bandits had seen her fall, it would only be a matter of time before they came to look for her. She struggled to her feet and started to walk upstream along a gurgling creek next to her. Violet had not gone far when a figure stepped from behind a wide tree trunk. Strong hands clamped over her mouth and prevented her involuntary shriek.

  "I wilna hurt ye" a husky male voice whispered in Violet's ear. "If ye dunna mak a sound, Ah'll let ye go." He added. Violet nodded vigorously and the hand was withdrawn. The man was so tall Violet looked nearly straight up to see him. Gasping for air, she turned to face this new threat. Locks of dark auburn hair framed green eyes in a tanned and handsome masculine face. With quick hand motions, he indicated that she should go ahead of him. He was clad in a kilt of muted colors and a leather jerkin, darkened by the rain. Violet took a couple of steps before she saw another man nearly identical to the first and two more men of similar appearance. Only the disparity between their appearance and the bandits up the hill kept her feet moving. To her surprise, the man to whom the rest deferred was not the man who had grabbed her. It was the second one she had seen. The walk through the rough terrain, through brush and trees seemed an eternity. The relentless rain left her hair hanging in wet ropes down her back. The black velvet gown soaked up the water and became heavier with every step. A turn among the trees brought them to a rocky overhang where six horses were tethered. On the back of one, the carcass of a red deer hung limply. With very little noise the men mounted their horses. The one who Violet had decided was the leader unceremoniously tossed her onto the back of a horse. It was a small mercy that her train was wide enough to let her ride with her legs covered. The daylight which had been very dim faded completely before the men brought Violet to a stopping place. More men and horses waited in a clearing. The dark did not seem to be a hindrance, as they packed their gear and made to accompany the men with Violet. She saw a few questioning looks from pale faces that came near, but heard nothing. They started off single file with Violet halfway down the line.

  Violet was shocked to realize that she was lying on the ground. It was quiet so she knew that the rain had stopped. She was chilled in her wet clothes, but she had been covered with a thick wool plaid. The noise from her abrupt movement brought a man into the shallow cave. He was mostly silhouette, but she could tell he was the leader of the group. Her head swam as she asked "How did I get here?" He stepped forward until she saw him clearly. With only a hint of a burr in his voice he replied "Ye fell asleep atop the horse. It was good enough reason for us all to stop and rest. What is yer name Lass?" "Violet Derington" she answered automatically. Her sharp intake of breath betrayed her sudden fear. Even though he gave her a sharp look, he continued as if he hadn't heard the gasp "Pleased to make your acquaintance. My name is Alexander Edmonstone, most people call me Sandy." He extended a hand in order to help Violet to her feet. Once on her feet she asked "What is going to become of me?" He cocked his head to one said and responded "That somewhat depends on yerself now doesn't it? Where were ye going before ye took yer tumble?" After a pause, Violet decided to chance and told the man what she could.
"I was on my way to see the Earl of Northumberland when we were attacked by bandits. Two men were killed that I know of for sure. But my maid and the other men were still alive when I fell. I would prefer to get back to them and complete my journey." She said as she looked up at him with pleading eyes. Sandy turned his back to her before he replied "Angus told us that all the men were dead and the girl was t........I think she is not alive." Hot tears sprang up in Violet's eyes as she wondered what it was that Sandy had left unsaid.

  "Be that as it may" Sandy continued "We canna go walking up the Earl with no a word of introduction. He would probably take offense to the deer we have taken." With a sick feeling inside Violet asked "Then what will you do with me?" He shrugged and told her "I will leave that to my father. A day and a half of hard riding will see us back home. Another man walked into sight and Violet realized it was the man who had silenced her in the forest. He shot an inquisitive look at Sandy who reacted by saying "James is my cousin. And James, the young lass here is Violet." James nodded brusquely in her direction and told Sandy "The horses ayr saddled." He went back the way he had come. Sandy picked up the wool plaid from the ground and led Violet to where the men waited.
This time she was helped to mount with a little more decorum. They started off as soon as the last man was a-horse. The men passed around hunks of hard bread and cheese. To Violet's surprise, her appetite returned in full force when she tasted food. The last meal she had eaten in the cart seemed years ago. No stop was made at all during the day; though they let the horses walk for stretches of time. They rode through the woods and up streams led by landmarks that Violet could not discern. Afternoon had passed into evening when they crested a rise and came out onto a narrow road. Lights were just barely visible in fading light.

  The lights came from the windows of buildings that made up a small compound. Inside the rough stone walls, Violet could see two houses and three barns. Quite a few black and white dogs came out to bark at the mounted group. The commotion brought four men from behind one building. One man was older with graying hair, while the three younger ones were of middling brown coloration. Sandy's raised hand brought the riders to a halt outside the steading's walls. The oldest man from the farm walked forward cautiously, his eyes narrowed in suspicious scrutiny. Violet saw the moment when he recognized Sandy for his eyes flew wide and a crooked smile cracked his face. "Twer a start ye gi' me, milord" he suddenly shouted as his stance relaxed "Yon boys, wun o' ye tell yer Ma we ha' gists. T'others hap wit tee hosses". In spite of her fatigue, Violet interpreted this exchange to mean that the men she rode with were known here and welcome. Of its own accord, the horse that Violet rode followed the others into the barn. In the slightly warmer darkness of the barn, Violet slid from the saddle and stood on shaky legs. She was so far out of her normal experience that she was momentarily frozen with fear. A few deep breaths to gather her courage and she turned towards the house and fell in with the stream of men moving that way.

  A heavy middle aged woman with mouse brown hair stood up as Violet walked in the door. She clouted the young man sitting on a bench in front of her and fussed "Ye dinna say we ha' a fine liddie to hose, ye daft mon." She handed the ladle which she had been using to a younger copy of herself and advanced on Violet like a ship under sail. "Milady" she insisted as she tugged Violet's sleeve "Coom wit me an' ye can ha' er sup privily" With a sigh of resignation, Violet let herself be led through a door into a room lit simply by a fireplace. The woman pointed to a stool on the hearth and told her "If yer liddieship wi' plaes to sit. Weel ha' a table fer ye right awa'" No sooner had Violet sat down then a small table was brought in by a young man. A very young girl that Violet had not seen before followed with two wax tapers set in wooden holders. Violet watched all this activity through an exhausted daze. Gradually she realized that Sandy had come into the room and leaned against the wall to watch her. Plates with steaming food, followed by cups and hunks of bread soon covered the table. This drew Violet's attention away from the man and towards her empty stomach. The stew was bland, but it was hot and filling. The cup held some sort of dark beer which Violet drank sparingly. Various faces had peered through the door while she ate, but no one had ventured to speak to her. 

  With her plate cleaned, Violet turned away from the tiny table and started to comb out her hair with her fingers. The full length of it hung down and coiled on the flagstone hearth. It took some time and effort but slowly she eased out the knots brought on by rain and wind. "I have never seen such hair on a woman" Sandy's voice cut through her concentration "You must have a soft life indeed." Ignoring his comment Violet asked "Where am I expected to sleep tonight?" The man's face was shadowed by the dim light so his reply caught Violet by surprise "In my bed if there was justice in the world". After a pause he chuckled softly and added "But there is not, so Master Brown and his Goodwife have given up their bed for you tonight. They have even induced one of their daughters to sleep in with you to preserve your reputation." He ducked back through the doorway into the brighter room where everyone else had eaten. Violet sat in dumbfounded silence for only a moment before Mistress Brown bustled in and shooed Violet towards a curtain that had concealed the back half of the room. A young lady followed them. "Martha can hap yer to oondress milady. Shill be guid company fer ye as weel." Violet reached out to touch the woman's work worn hands and whispered "Thank you so much for your kindness." As Mistress Brown turned away abruptly, Violet saw that she had blushed. When Violet was undressed, Mistress Brown sat her down on the edge of the bed and added "Martha kin also hap ye put yer hair up. I ha' a wee cap wut jis mebbe fit yer." Martha's fingers were surprisingly deft as she wove Violet's hair into two thick braids. The linen coif went over this and Violet almost felt like herself again. She stretched out on the bed gratefully and passed into exhausted oblivion.

  The room was still dark when Violet awoke to the sound of two men arguing softly.
"I say we liv the wee gurl here and send word to the Earl where she kin by foond" stated the first voice. The reply she recognized as Sandy "And what will my father say when he learns we passed by a chance for a fat ransom?" A thump preceded the response "Yer father has noot to bare onnit. I seen yer sniffin after the wee chit lak a houn' on scent. Tis trouble lak that weel see ye keeled soon eno'." There was a rustle followed by the scrape of wooden bench on stone floor. "Not this time" Sandy said "I ha' a sore head. Get the men up and moving as soon as can be. I want to be gone before light." Another thump and more scraping could be heard before a door slammed and left the room in silence. Violet shook Martha awake and whispered "Please help me dress quickly." Rather sleepily she climbed from the bed. The heavy velvet dress had mercifully been dried out by the fireplace. Martha had barely finished with the lacings when Mistress Brown came into the room. "Tis guid that ye are aboot" she exclaimed "Himself wist to be ridin' befuir dawn." She handed Violet a small loaf of bread with a cup of milk. She paced around the room muttering as much to herself as out loud "The mon ha' no sense of monners. Tis weel eno' for those wut kenna sho' hospitality lak decent folks. Lak as not the liddie weel go thinkin' this hose is no better tan a robber's den." She had gone out to the main room during the end of the last few words, and Violet saw no reason not to follow her. James followed by Sandy stepped in the front door. James face was set in stone while Sandy's more closely resembled a small boy caught in the creamery.

When the last man was mounted, James led the mismatched cavalcade out the gate of the farmstead. It did not take long for Violet to notice that the deer carcasses were no longer in evidence. It would not have surprised her to find that some of the meat had remained with her erstwhile hosts. Now that she was rested and had her wits about her, Violet noticed that the men contrived to keep her near the center of the group. Did they think she would bolt with no idea of where she was? As they followed the road, crofts and farms clustered more densely along the route. Only once during the day did they come to a halt. Not being used to such long hours in the saddle, Violet was happy for the respite. No one said anything to her, but most of the men kept a watchful eye on her movements. Once or twice she caught a look from Sandy that included a feral smile. A cold wind came up in the afternoon and continued to blow fiercely through the rest of the day. A gray rock cliff that they had been slowly working their way towards resolved itself into a imposing stone keep. One of the men in the lead urged his horse into a gallop and disappeared over a rise in the road. The rest continued the steady pace they had been holding to. As they got closer to the keep, Violet realized that it was not quite as large as it had originally seemed. The road climbed steadily up the hill which gave the castle its imposing height when seen from the valley. A few men could be seen above the gate and along the outer wall. A wide assortment of people passed in and out of the open gate. Many of them stopped to stare at Violet and her escort. There was barely enough light for clear visibility when they passed inside the castle.

Sandy's large muscular hand claimed Violet's wrist as soon as she slid from her horse's back. His tanned face was still handsome, but Violet eyed him a bit more warily now. A wicked grin ghosted across his face before he settled into a more serious expression. His grip left no room for resistance as he tugged Violet up the steps into the main hall. Most of the trestle tables were being dismantled and stacked against the walls. On a raised dais on the far end sat a man who was obviously Sandy's father. After he had pulled Violet in front of the man, Sandy shocked her when he dropped to one knee and said "Greetings your Excellency. I have returned." A little belatedly Violet dropped to her knees beside him; all the while she wondered what she had dropped into this time. The green eyes that locked on her face were filled with cold fury "What have you brought home with you this time?" The question was directed at Sandy though the baron's eyes never left Violet's. Her cool gray eyes met his with calm resolution. "Tis a ward of the Earl's that we rescued from an untimely fate" Sandy answered calmly. The baron's voice boomed again "Is this true girl?" Violet spared a tiny glance at Sandy before she replied "Yes my lord. It is true in the narrowest sense." It was only then that his eyes left her face to rest on his son's.
After a heavy sigh the baron told him "bring her back to my chambers. We will speak there." He got up from his chair and dropped his hand on the shoulder of a slight pale woman who sat next to me. They exchanged a wordless glance before he walked to a door behind and to the left of the table. After only a moment, Sandy scrambled after him, leaving Violet to follow on her own.

As Violet struggled her way up the steep stairs, Sandy turned and told her "I should ha' told you sooner. My father is Baron Linton." Violet had already figured out that Sandy's angry father was a baron, but the name Linton meant nothing to her. Her knowledge of the English nobility was somewhat limited, and she knew next to nothing of the Scots.
When the reached the second floor, they entered the baron's chambers to find him standing in front of the single window. He pointed to a bench in front of the fireplace and ordered "Sit down. I will ha' the lass tell me her story." Violet sat gingerly on the bench and began "I was traveling under the protection of Lord Horton's guards when we were attacked by bandits.......of some sort. I was attempting to hide under the cart with my maid when I slipped and fell down the hill. Your son took me under his protection and then brought me here." Baron Linton had been facing the window. When Violet stopped speaking he turned and gave her a hard look. "Do ye mean to tell me" he asked "that the Marquis of Berwick sent his personal guards off with a wee slip of a girl, who I know, is no relation to him?" Violet blinked in surprise at his vehemence before she answered "I said I traveled with Lord Horton's guards and I meant it." Baron Linton transferred his gaze to his son. To the unspoken question he answered "I saw the device myself." The anger faded a little from the baron's eyes before he commented "Then my son, you have either made a very costly mistake, or we will profit by happy accident."

Baron Linton addressed Violet again "The marquis is a notorious skinflint. He'll not spend a penny to benefit any but himself. What did it cost you to gain his protection?" The man who had showered Violet with presents and gowns was hard for her to reconcile with the man that the baron described. It took her a minute to collect her thoughts before she answered "He said that he aided me because of an old debt he owed Lord Wesley. But he was far more kind and generous to me than any old debt could have called for." Baron Linton sat down on a stool nearby as he visibly digested this explanation. "tis a deeper game than I suspected" he said almost absentmindedly "But what ha' ye to do with Lord Wesley?" This was easier for Violet to answer "His daughter is my best friend. Lady Wesley and my late mother were very close friends." The baron scratched his chin as he commented "Very close friends indeed to expend such expensive favors on ye." His somber worried Violet enough that she resolved not to mention Sir Edward. She wondered if she had said too much already. The discussion of Lord Horton had reminded her of all the beautiful dresses he had given her. Then a worse memory intruded when she remembered poor Mary. Terrified of being involved in intrigue, it had indeed cost her life. A single tear leaked from Violet's eyes even as she resolved not to cry in public. She was deep in her thoughts when the baron thundered at Sandy "Did ye touch her? Because if ye did, then by God, I'll gi' ye to the Ainglish myself!" This brought Sandy to his feet as he shouted back "I did not! To which even James will speak on my behalf. Last night she slept in Master Brown's bed near Harelaw. And their youngest girl slept in the same bed!" With both men standing facing each other like enraged bears, Violet worried that the men would come to blows.

Then the baron stepped back and ordered Sandy "Leave the girl here and send my wife to me, along with my scribe and someone to ride with a message." Sandy glared at his father for one second more before he stalked out of the room. "What shall I do with ye lass?" he asked of himself as much as anyone. After his display of temper, Violet felt it was best to say nothing until she was spoken to. It was not long before the small pale woman that Violet had seen downstairs walked into the room. The baron gestured diffidently in her direction and explained "This is my Baroness". With a grim tightening of his face he spoke to the lady "It appears the lass is to be our honored guest for a bit. As I am sure ye know, we need to house her somewhere the lads canna bother her. I gi' her into yer charge milady" The baroness nodded and asked "What name can we call you?" Violet stood up to make a small bow before she answered "Please call me Violet milady"
"Well enough Violet" she responded "If you will come with me, we can get you settled in". She turned and walked out the door with Violet close behind. The scribe scrambled past them on the stairway without so much as a second glance and disappeared in the baron's chambers. When the reached the ground floor, Baroness Linton led Violet to the dais in the main hall. "Bess" she called out to a maid who was still cleaning up "Have someone show Mistress Violet here to a room in the south tower. Mind you that it be one with a lock." She paused to look Violet over before she added "And have some clean clothes brought to her out of the late Baroness's chests." Then she swirled away and left Violet alone with the maid.

  It was Bess's turn to look Violet up and down. "Himself mount tink ye weel brin' a pretty price ta be goan ta sich tribble aboot ye. Coom alon' then. I ha'nt all day ta lighter aboot ta pliss" She left her broom against the wall and went through a door opposite the one from which Violet had just come. It seemed like they climbed an interminable amount of stairs before they stopped in front of a wooden door. Bess turned the heavy iron key and opened it. She then held out the key to Violet and said "Tis yer room. I wouldna wander aboot if ah were ye. The lads ken be a maught rough with an Ainglish lass lak yersailf." She waited until Violet passed her to go through the door. Then she stomped her way back down the stairs. The room was Spartan in its furnishings. A fairly wide but simple bed dominated, with a stool, a bench and a chest as its satellites. There was no fire in the smallish fireplace, and the lack of other distractions left Violet to feel the chill. There was one blanket on the bed, so she stripped this off and huddled in it on the bench.

A sharp knock awoke Violet. She had fallen into a doze still on the bench. She opened the door to find two women, obviously servants, on the landing. Without a word they pushed past her into the room. One was carrying a bucket with hot coals and the other had a bundle of cloth. A grinning Sandy followed them into the room and behind him came two more men. These were burdened with wood with they immediately dumped into the fireplace. Sandy sauntered over and sat on the bed while the servants got the fire going and put away the clothes they had brought. Violet stood as close to the fireplace as she could and still be out of the servants' way. "Do ye find the accommodations comfortable?" Sandy asked laconically. Violet shrugged and answered "The room is much more comfortable now that it's warm". The last servant trooped out when their tasks were done and left the door ajar. Alone with Sandy lounging on her bed, Violet laid her palm over the reassuring weight of the key where she had tucked it. "I would like to go to .......sleep now please" she told him. His smile turned lascivious and he got up from the bed as slowly as possible. He reached out and almost touched her as he stepped past. "Sleep well. I look forward to seeing you at Mass in the morning." As soon as he was on the landing, she darted over to shut and lock the door behind him. The thought suddenly occurred to her that even though he was handsome, he made her feel much the same way that Hereward always had. This turn led her to realize that she had not thought of him or her stepmother in some days. That morning in Margaret's house, she would never have imagined the turns of fate that had led here.

During the next weeks, Violet realized that James had appointed himself her guardian, or possibly jailor. Unable to stay idle, she had begged to be allowed the tasks such as she had done all her life. She mended the household's small clothes alongside the baroness; she helped tend the keep's herb garden and other sundry small things. And every where she went, she was shadowed by a young boy or girl. One night upon retiring she caught one of them outside her door giving a report to James. She snatched the man's arm when he tried to vanish. "You set spies upon me" she commented drily "Do you fear I will run into the wild?" His green eyes smoldered as they locked on hers and gave her a momentary thrill of fear. "My cousin is a careless devourer of maidens" he replied in a low menacing voice "Very powerful men have an interest in your well-being. I prefer that the ainglish have no reason to harm my uncle or my cousin". His gaze dropped to where her small hand held his doublet sleeve. Then he shifted forward until there were only inches between them and Violet's back touched the stone wall. Her blood flashed hot and then cold. "Be wary." he told her in a softer voice "With luck you will go in a day or two. The messenger returned from the Earl yesterday." Not for the first time Violet noticed that these people referred to Northumberland as 'The Earl' as if his name was a talisman of ill fortune. James pulled himself from her grasp and disappeared down the stairs.

  It was mid-day and a light blanket of snow lay over the herb garden when a boy ran pounding up to where Violet stood. "Himself is asking fer ye" he gasped out between breaths "in the Hall noo" He was still gasping for breath when Violet left him there. She stopped just inside the door when she saw the group of men that stood around the fireplace. One was very richly dressed while the man next to him appeared to be a clerk of some type. But what had made Violet stop in her tracks were the liveried guards scattered around the hall. Baron Linton spied her in the doorway and called "Coom here lass. Someone is here for you." When she was closer Violet saw that the richly dressed man was astoundingly young with dark hair and eyes as pale of a gray as her own. She dropped a quick bow and said "Violet Derington at your service milord". The smile that crossed his face as he drawled "So this is the young woman who made such an impression upon my august grandfather, I must say I am pleased to finally meet you. I am Viscount Berwick." His accent reminded her sharply of her father and tears stung her eyes. She managed to reply "I am pleased to meet you milord. And his Excellency, your grandfather, is a wonderful man." The Viscount turned to Baron Linton and told him "As soon as Mistress Violet is ready to travel, we can be on our way. Certes, so many armed men must strain the hospitality of your people." Baron Linton flicked a hand towards Violet and replied "The sairvents wi' be doon wi' her baggage soon." It seemed to Violet that his accent had gotten heavier suddenly. She wondered if it was from nerves, or something else.

The two nobles resumed their polite small talk while waiting for Violet's things. She scanned the room to see who else was present. There was no sign of Sandy, but James lounged near the main doors. His face was white and strained as he intently watched the men in the room. Before long one of the maids came in carrying a small box. This broke up the forced conversation between the nobles. The Viscount abruptly turned to the main doors and the guards fell into place behind him. When she stepped outside, Violet was surprised to see no less than two carts and a carriage outside. Horses for all the guards who had been outside, as well as more men still mounted filled the forecourt. One of the guards took her small chest and tossed it into the back of a cart. A footman held open the carriage door and helped Violet to step inside. The Viscount climbed inside right behind her. A rap on the wall set the carriage in motion. "My Lord I..." Violet began before a raised hand silenced her. "If it please" he said "I give you leave to call me Thomas when we speak privily. May I call you Violet?" She blushed furiously at the familiarity but replied "yes you may.....my.......Thomas". His smile grew even broader and he commented "Thank you. I always thought it awkward when I was being tutored with other boys and we all had to call each other My Lord This and My Lord That. You are obviously not anyone's servant and we will be spending some time in each other's company." He stopped speaking and leaned forward top open a box in front of them. From this he pulled out two metal cups and a jug. When he pulled the stopper, the smell of sweet wine filled the carriage. "This will help us to stay warm" he explained "And now what shall we talk about? It will be days before we reach Alnwick Castle."

  Four days of travelling with Thomas, Viscount Berwick had taught Violet a great deal about him. While in the carriage, he seemed to be constantly on the verge of carefree and happy inebriation. But once he stepped down into the public eye each evening, he resumed being the polished and educated Viscount. After the first day, Violet had realized that she could not match his capacity for wine and demurred when it was offered. During one particularly long dreary day, he confessed to Violet that his grandfather was beginning to press him on the subject of marriage. But whenever he was at court, he said the constant maneuvering left him feeling either like a prize stud bull on display, or viewing the young women of the court as broodmares themselves. When summoned to rescue Violet, he had been thoroughly relieved to get away from court for while. In turn Violet confessed her misgiving over meeting Northumberland. She did not dare tell him more of the reasons for her journey. Occasionally he would tweak her about keeping her secrets, but it was down in a softly joking manner. The last night before reaching Alnwick was spent at an inn not far from the castle. Thomas arranged for the two of them to eat in a private dining room. Violet was saving her sole surviving black velvet gown for meeting Northumberland. So this evening she wore an old-fashioned gown that Baroness Linton had given her. It was gray-blue, the color of a winter ocean. Her two long black braids hung down her back twined with blue ribbons. Thomas came into the room where Violet sat in between two fat yellow candles. He stopped abruptly and stared as if he had been pole axed

"Is there something wrong.......Thomas?" Violet asked hesitantly. He seemed to shake himself mentally before he replied "No, I am well. I apologize for my seeming rudeness, but the Innkeeper was just telling me about a local myth. It was something called a kelpie or a calipee, but the description he gave could have fit you as you look just now." A few quick steps brought him out of the doorway where he sat next to Violet. He added with a small chuckle "He also said they use their indescribable beauty to lure unsuspecting men to their deaths in the sea."  Unsure what to say, Violet looked away from his piercing gray eyes. Anything further that he might have said was lost by the Innkeeper's knock before he opened the door to admit the servers. Violet sat quietly with her eyes downcast while the dishes were spread out on the table. When everything was in its place, the servers retreated to leave the two of them along again. Thomas poured them both some wine and began to eat without further preamble. His silence had made her feel that she had failed some sort of test by not responding more graciously to the implied compliment. Her exposure to Hereward Lisle and then Sandy Edmonstone had left more than a little wary of men's attentions. Both of them retired to their respective rooms as soon as the food was cleared away. When she saw that Thomas took another bottle to his room, Violet was slightly dismayed. Somehow she felt that the evening had not gone as it should. She slipped into bed with a feeling of vague regret.

  The next morning Thomas was his usual cheerful self. Only by examining his eyes closely could Violet tell that he had probably finished more than one bottle after she had gone to bed. The carriage ride that morning was relatively short and Thomas made sure that the conversation did not mention their imminent parting. The cavalcade strung out as the passed into the outer curtain wall of Alnwick. By the time they reached the main forecourt, quite a crowd had gathered out front. As soon as the Viscount had helped Violet step down from the carriage, an older man stepped forward. "You would be Mistress Violet?" he asked politely. After a deep breath she replied "yes I am." Then the man turned towards Thomas and said "If Your Lordship and Mistress Violet will come with me, His Grace has asked to see you as soon as you arrive." With a small flip of his hand, Thomas signaled the man to continue. "My name is John." The man explained as they walked "I am His Grace's Steward." The steward led them to a windowless room that was behind the main hall. Two men inside broke off their conversation at the arrival of the newcomers. The one who was sitting on an oversize chair addressed Violet "I presume you are mistress Violet Derington?" She made a quick bow and replied "Your Grace, yes I am Violet." He gestured towards toe dark haired man who stood to his right and asked "Do you know this worthy gentleman?" She shook her head and replied "No Your Grace. I do not remember ever seeing this man." The Earl cocked one eyebrow at Violet and commented "That is exceedingly fascinating since this gentleman is Baron Whitemount." Her attention snapped back at this revelation and she took a harder look. She could just see a slight resemblance to Mistress Lisle. As she focused on his face it seemed as if her vision was fading to dark around him. A dizzy and sick feeling washed over her as she closed her eyes.

Violet opened her eyes to see an unfamiliar ceiling. A rustle of cloth drew her eyes towards its source. A nun who had been sitting by the bed stood up and loomed over her. "Are you better now dear?" she asked. Nodding her head as she sat up, Violet asked "What happened?" The nun stepped back and tucked her hands into her wide sleeves. "You fainted in His Grace's chamber. The servants carried you up here. If you are well enough to sit on your own, I need to report that you are awake." At Violet's nod, the nun left the room quickly. The servants had laid her out on the bed fully dressed so she got off the bed and looked out the door. One of the housemaids was hurrying up the hallway towards her. When she saw Violet she stopped and said "His Grace asks to see you as soon as you are up. I can show you the way." She turned without waiting for a reply, so Violet simply followed her. The same room was their destination. That the Viscount Berwick was still there made Violet feel slightly less anxious. Some stools had been brought in. The Earl pointed to an empty one and indicated that she should sit there. A servant pressed a goblet of warm spiced wine into her hands. While she waited for the Earl to speak, she sipped the drink slowly. "It did not please me to give you such a shock" he finally said "I hope you are recovered, but I need you to tell me all the details of what you know. Perforce I have kept the Baron unknowing since he came here at my urgent summons." A rueful smile played at his lips when he added "Your unfortunate detour has left him kicking his heels for far longer than I had intended. So I say again, please tell all you know."

Less than a half-hour was required for Violet to relay everything that she had heard, half-heard and surmised about Mistress Lisle's plot. When they had asked their last question of Violet, the servants returned with more wine. A few moments of silence passed before Baron Whitemount spoke "The day that I left London to come here there was an incident on the riverfront. A small cart broke down and lost several barrels. In the confusion I was separated from my guard for a moment. A man whom I took to be a bargeman came up beside me and tried to stab me. If I had not flinched at his sudden movement, he might have succeeded. As it was he barely escaped my guard by diving into the river." A sip of wine steadied Violet's voice before she responded "So the assassin is still free. Might he make another attempt?" The Baron exchanged a glance with the Earl before he replied "Since hearing your story, I believe that it is possible. Before now I had considered that incident a random attempt at robbery. I am deeply indebted to His Grace for bringing your information to my attention. Now I see the incident quite differently." "What will be your next step?" Thomas, Viscount Berwick, asked. It was the Earl who answered "First I must make suit to the king for of Violet as my ward. It might be expensive, but his Excellency the Baron has agreed to half the cost. Then we will move against Hereward Lisle and the women involved." What Thomas said next surprised everyone in the room "My Grandfather has authorized me to pay whatever is necessary for Violet to become his ward; though he did not explain his reasons."

  "Well" said the Earl "that is good news for the state of my purse". Violet stared at Thomas in open mouthed surprise. She had expected the Earl to derive some benefit out of her appeal. But for a man she had known only a few brief days to say that he would pay whatever it took to become her legal guardian was beyond her ability to comprehend.
The Viscount did not even glance at Violet, so she wondered what he knew or surmised about his Grandfather's plans. Her line of thought was interrupted when the Earl continued "I would not have expected His Lordship to part with so much gold over this matter. But I for one will not look a gift horse in the mouth." He drummed his fingers on the arm of the chair and asked Thomas "If we manage to get the lady's guardianship to your esteemed grandfather, will he still side with us on the wool concessions bill that the king is asking for?" The Viscount nodded and answered "Yes. He specifically instructed me to remind you that he considered that promise binding". The Earl slapped his leg and stood up. "All is well then" he said "Let us get the young lady settled and I will have the suit of custody brought before His Grace, the King". The bell summoned the steward who led Violet from the room.

The inner courtyard of the castle was pure white by late afternoon. The rare early snowfall had lent the fortress a magical air. Even the golden stone walls of the castle were covered with frost like a thousand tiny diamonds. The windows of the long gallery gave Violet an open view of the unblemished snow. The wind rattled the panes of window glass as she shivered in the chilly air. Footsteps approached her down the hallway, but she did not turn until she heard Thomas's voice. "I did not expect to find you in this cold place" he said "I looked for you to no avail in the main hall and the solar." Violet managed a half-smile before she replied "I just wanted some time to myself so I could think." Thomas stood beside her and gazed out at the frosty view she had been contemplating. Briefly she turned her face towards him before she spoke "I had no concept of how my life would change when I set out for this place. I only vaguely imagined that His Grace would stop the plot to murder Baron Whitemount and prevent me being robbed of my dower properties. I had a faint hope that a better husband than that slug Hereward would be found for me, but it was disconcerting to stand and listen to men discussing my fate as if they were bidding on a prize mare." This last comment evoked a soft chuckle from Thomas. "Certes I see your point there, having felt much the same myself on occasion" he commented "But such is the way of the world. People of our sort marry out of our duty to advance our families. The interests of your family would be poorly served if you and your dower properties fell into the hands of a scoundrel such as I have heard Master Lisle described." Violet looked at the Viscount and asked pointedly "Do you know who your grandfather has in mind as a match for me?" Thomas face flushed white and then red before he answered "I do not know. My grandfather keeps his own counsel very close." He looked down into Violet's anxious face before he added "I do not think he intends that I be a match for you. I believe he would have shared that with me".  Violet felt unsure that Thomas's words had relieved any of her worries. She turned her gaze back to the window unsure of what she should say next. The Viscount broke the silence when he told her "I looked for you to tell you that I must leave in the morning. Grandfather will be anxious to know that I delivered you safely. So this is farewell." A small cold feeling of dismay filled Violet's chest. "I had hoped to have your company longer" she responded "But I do understand. Give Lord Horton my greetings and safe journey to you." Thomas briefly pressed her fingers to his lips before he turned and walked away.

  The next few days brought more surprises for Violet. The Marquis of Berwick had insisted on providing her with a small allowance. Her first excursion from the castle was into the town to purchase items of clothing that she needed. Despite the generosity of Baroness Linton, Violet had no clothes that were not worn, stained or patched. The steward had assigned a maid named Martha to act as her lady's maid. One of the Earl's armsmen accompanied the women into the town for a day of shopping. Since the weather was sure to get colder, Violet concentrated on heavier wool dresses. With a slightly sad longing she recalled the luxury of the plush velvet dresses that Lord Horton had given her. For the moment, garments like that were beyond her means. Items like hoods and shoes were easily enough found. Underpinnings required a small amount of time for measurements. However, the fittings at the seamstress's shop took much more time, so it was nearly time for dinner when they made their way back to the castle. Violet's small purchases made up quite an armload of small bundles. It was a small mercy that the dresses and other things would be delivered to the castle later. Her second excursion was to buy a small wedding gift for her friend Margaret. It could be delivered by one of the Earl's messengers who made regular trips back and forth to London. She chose a pair of cream colored kid gloves, hoping that the arrival of the gift would reassure Margaret and her parents that she was well. As Violet wrapped them up for delivery, it saddened her to realize that she would not attend her friend's wedding.

  It was the first of December when Violet received instructions from the Earl to pack for a trip to London. Through Master John, the steward, he explained that he now felt it necessary that his household attend the Christmas Court. While she was pleased that he had provided several gowns suitable for Court attire, she did not relish the possibility of seeing her stepmother, or Mistress Lisle. The Earl was entitles to lodgings at Court, but because of the demand for space he had leased a fairly large house at the edge of the city. Northumberland preferred to travel in comfort and he refused to limit his personal retainers and servants just because the Court was crowded for the holidays. The armsman who had accompanied Violet on her shopping trips was one of three detailed to attend her while they were all in London. During one of the rare dinners when the Earl was not entertaining guests, he spoke to Violet "I had hoped to keep you here out of the king's sight. If he catches sight of you, the price of his favor might increase. But since I sincerely doubt that he will grace the poor house I have managed to procure, it is not likely he will see you." He paused while a server refilled his wine. "I understand that Lord Horton is working on a marriage contract for you" he casually announced "Yardley Hall pays a decent income, and the other two are not far behind. I would think you could have quite a choice of suitors even without any of them getting a look at you". At first Violet had been confused by the sudden change of subject matter. Belatedly it occurred to her that the Earl was attempting to pay her a compliment. "Your Grace is far too kind" she managed to reply. The smile that brightened his face told her that she had guessed correctly. She almost questioned further about her possible suitor, but decided against it since she was unlikely to know the man anyway.

The journey to London was miserable even with the level of convenience that the Earl of Northumberland was able to afford. The boxy carriages were bitterly cold even with fur coverlets and the windows tightly shut. Violet shared her coverlet with Martha, her maid. She pitied the other members of the household who rode out in the open, either or horseback or on wagons. Until they were far enough south that the snowfall was lighter, they did not cover much ground in a day. It was dangerous to risk the road in darkness during a heavy snowfall. The lack of visibility had led numerous travelers to their deaths when they wandered unseeing off the road. They did reach their destination in the end. When they passed inside the gates, Violet could not help her reaction at first sight. What the Earl had termed a 'poor house' seemed to her a grand palace. This house compared to Alnwick as a lady's palfrey compared to a warhorse. The many glittering windows set into ruddy brick walls glittered from the glow of light from within. When they stopped in the stable yard, Violet realized that her father's house was hardly larger than the stables here. She threaded her way though the mass of servants unpacking the wagons and reached the warmth inside the house. Master John, the steward called out to her "I will have someone show you to your rooms momentarily Mistress. The maids are still lighting the bedroom fires". He hurried off so quickly that Violet was uncertain that he had her when she replied "Thank you". The wait turned out to be only a few moments before a woman she had never seen before came up and told her "Follow me an it please you Mistress. Your chambers are ready for you now". She was glad of the guide as they walked. The warren of hallways they traversed seemed like a maze to Violet.

  The room that Violet was shown turned out to be a type of 'stacked rooms' that she had heard about but never seen. The ground floor was a small withdrawing room with chests for storage and a table where she could take her meals if she wished. The second floor was a bedchamber with a surprisingly large bed and more cabinets for storage. On the top floor was a bathing chamber and garderobe. A door in the far wall of this chamber presumably led to another set of chambers. Since the house Violet had known most of her life only had one garderobe, just having one for two sets of chambers seemed decadent, to say the least. Her explorations finished, Violet changed out of her heavy traveling clothes. She determined to learn her way around the house. Martha was left to do the unpacking as Violet started down the hall. A few false starts brought her to a mostly empty reception room flanked by two fireplaces. At that moment, only one of them was in use. The other sat cold and empty. Light spilled into this room from two large mullioned windows. The evening light showed the snow in the yard beyond had been churned to gray slush by many feet. "His Grace will not be dining here this evening" Master John's voice startled her since she had not heard his approach. He asked "Will you be dining downstairs, or shall I order supper for your rooms?" Already rattled by the steward's silent approach, she was further confused by the question. Back at Alnwick, she had grown used to the staff mostly ignoring her. She was not sure what had sparked the change, but he had addressed her as a lady of rank. "I think I will have dinner in my room" she answered him "I should feel odd eating alone in that great dining room". She had inclined her head towards the long dining hall just visible through double doors. "Very good Mistress" was Master John's only comment before he disappeared once more.

  Several days passed before Violet saw the Earl of Northumberland. She was doing some embroidery by the fire in the reception room when he stalked in with a clump of retainers. "It is good that you are here" he told her "His Grace, the King, has asked that you be presented at Court in the morning. Your benefactor, the Marquis, apparently has something in the works with the Earl of Grantham. The king wants you to be presented before he gives his approval. Wear something suitable and be ready early." Without giving Violet time to comment, he walked off with the horde in tow. At first Violet was nearly overcome by anxiety at meeting the king. She sank back down on her stool when her trembling knees threatened to betray her. Then as the full import of his words sank in, she realized that she was now officially the ward of Lord Horton. Her father and stepmother had to have been informed of her change in status. In fact, they probably knew of her whereabouts by now. And what use her stepmother and Mistress Lisle might make of that knowledge, Violet shuddered to contemplate.

That night Violet slept very little, and when she did her dreams were punctuated by Hereward's gloating face and Mistress Lisle's cold voice. Violet was already on her way to see the king when she realized that thoughts of her stepmother and the Lisle family had entirely crowded out any thoughts of what arrangement may have been made with the Earl of Grantham. Then they arrived at Richmond Palace and Violet had no thought to spare for anything but navigating the throng of people and her coming presentation. The Earl of Northumberland surprised her when he told her "The Viscount will present you to the king. The herald will announce you both, so you need do nothing but accompany him. Bow at the appropriate time and walk away." Thomas, Viscount Berwick, appeared at her side and took possession of her arm. Barely moments later, had she heard her name and Thomas steered her forward out of the crowd and down the open space in front of the king. At the end of the patterned carpet Thomas stopped and Violet bowed on his cue. Immediately following the king's nod, he turned her to the right and they exited the room through a different doorway. Without pausing, Thomas continued with her until they were back at the sedan chair she had arrived in only a short time before. By the time Violet had recovered her wits, Thomas had gone. She stepped into the sedan chair with Martha and held on while the chair lifted.

  They had traversed about half the distance to the townhouse when the sedan chair jostled heavily. The bearers were shouting at the crowds who pressed in around them. Violet peered out of the curtains just in time to see a heavy set man shove one of the bearers from behind. Her guard pulled the ruffian away, but the bearer had already slipped. The chair went tumbling to the ground. Violet and Martha both screeched when rough hands started to pull them though the tangled draperies. The second guard tried to come to her aid but was set upon by two boys with clubs. Another man finally succeeded in pulling Violet upright out of the fallen chair. When he locked his arms around her, she began to scream and kick in earnest. The first guardsman had succeeded in drawing his sword. At least one of his attackers lay bleeding on the street. But there were too many of the street urchins between him and Violet as she was inexorably dragged away. Then another man appeared at her side and gave her would-be abductor tow fast blows full in the face. He staggered backwards before he pulled out a long knife and faced the newcomer. The man who had interfered in the attack had two companions with him their swords drawn. It took no more than a few seconds for the ruffian to turn and run. The other attackers melted into the crowd as if they had never been. When the grip on her had been released, Violet had fallen to the ground. Now her rescuer extended his hand to help her up. His hair was a tawny color that was not quite blonde. As Violet regained her feet, the guards moved to flank her on either side. "Thank you for your timely assistance" Violet gushed in relief. He looked down at her with gold-flecked eyes in a pleasant open face and replied with a wry smile "It was my pleasure milady. I have never before had the opportunity to rescue a damsel in distress." He looked at the glowering guards before he added "Perhaps my companions and I can assist in escorting you to your destination". She took a deep breath intending to decline, but one look at Martha's white face changed her mind. "I would be happy to accept your gracious offer, milord". The bearer who had fallen turned out to be unhurt, so within minutes they resumed their trip home.

The gentleman who had come to their rescue paused at the townhouse gate. He had made small talk with Violet during the remainder of the trip across London. He told funny stories about the city and people he had seen. By the time they reached the townhouse gate, he had helped Violet get over her fright and she laughed merrily at his witticisms. She tried to learn his name to thank him properly but he left them at the gate without ever introducing himself. The scuffle in the street had soiled Violet's dress so she went to her room immediately to change. The rest of the day she spent trying to repair some of the damage. She had also been working on a embroidering small Twelfth Night present for the Earl. After her morning's double ordeal, it was a relief to spend the rest of the day quietly in her rooms. She had intended to retire early when Martha opened the door to Master John's knock. "His Grace has returned and has asked to see you immediately" he explained. With more than a little trepidation, she followed the steward to the room being used as the Earl's presence chamber. He was alone except for his secretary, and one of the guards that had accompanied Violet earlier. "I have just received report of this morning's debacle" he told Violet "Do you believe this attack was directed at you specifically?" Violet shook her head slowly and replied "Your Grace, I am not sure, though I feel so. The one man seemed intent on carrying me away instead of thievery." The Earl looked at the guard who nodded as if Violet had confirmed his words. The he asked "Did you know the gentleman who came to your assistance?" This time she shook her head resolutely "No Your Grace, I have never met him before and he did not introduce himself to any of us." The Earl gestured a dismissal at her and concluded "Very well, I shall have word of this day's work sent to Whitemount. Soon enough he must have enough evidence to move against his enemies".

On the morning of Christmas Eve, Thomas, Viscount Berwick, arrived unexpectedly and sought Violet out. Since her narrow escape, the Earl had decreed that she remain inside the grounds of the townhouse. The bitter cold and regular snowfall meant that she was mostly confined to the house, a large one though it was. This visit was doubly welcome in light of that confinement because Violet had felt her solitude acutely as the holiday approached. When Thomas was shown into the room where she waited, Violet was shocked to see how pale and distraught he looked. He sat down opposite her and appeared to struggle with a decision. A cold knot of fear threatened to form in Violet's chest before he visibly came to a resolution and blurted out "My grandfather sent me to tell you that he has contracted your marriage to the second son of the Earl of Grantham. The Earl's property is either entailed as a dowry for his daughter or to his eldest son who will be the next Earl. My grandfather will receive a settlement in cash from the Earl of Grantham, and his son will receive your dower properties. You will become Lady Violet Waverly." His face and tone was severely at odds with the news that he had relayed. A vision of Hereward swam across her thoughts. "You sound unhappy at the arrangement" she queried "Is there something bad about Lord Waverly or his family?" Thomas stood up abruptly and walked over to the roaring fireplace. The light from the flickering flames illuminated the panes of his face. When he spoke again his voice was choked with emotion "There is nothing unsavory about Lord Waverly or any of the Earl's family. But I am afraid that I have angered my grandfather over this." Alarmed at his apparent distress Violet asked "How have you angered your grandfather?" Thomas still faced the fire as he answered "I told him that I had a great affection for you and wanted to marry you myself".

  "You did not!" Violet exclaimed "Please tell me that you did not." Thomas turned to look at her and asked "Why do you say that to me? Are my affections that unwelcome to you?" A trickle of tears ran from her eyes as she answered "No. I do not speak against your feelings. But you know my circumstances. Your grandfather has been kind and generous to me, much more than I would have deserved. The only means I have to repay the debt is to benefit him by my marriage." Even while the tears wet her face she refused to hide her face from the Viscount. For several minutes he looked down at her silently. His voice was low and rough when at last he questioned her "So it is only the matter of the money that stands between us." Her response was almost a whisper "There is also my honor. I have pledged myself to follow the bidding of your grandfather and Northumberland in return for their aid. I cannot renege on that bargain now." She held the Viscount's gaze until he turned his eyes away. "Very well" he said as he took a deep breath to steady himself "Then I must tell you all. Lord Robert Waverly will be at Court for Christmas to sign the marriage contract. It has fallen as my lot to sign the contract as my grandfather's representative. Lord Robert will call on you within a few days, as he wishes to see you before the marriage contracts are finalized". Surprised and somewhat anxious over what she had heard, Violet responded "Thank you for your news. I do hope we can remain on friendly terms". Thomas grimaced at her words and walked away without further reply.

Violet felt her heart had broken over the Viscount's confession. That he was a good man was true, and she felt she could have been happy with him if given the chance. Fortunately for her though, she was not given much time to brood over his pain. The guests of the Earl started arriving for the holidays and the house was filled with courtiers and their servants. Even young Lord Harry arrived late that evening to spend Christmas with his father. The front reception hall had fires lit in both fireplaces and buffets were set up along the walls. Food and drink were kept constantly replenished by the servants as guests came and went. The moment of wonder came for Violet when her friend Margaret came for a visit with her parents, Lord and Lady Wesley. Violet's face lit of with delight when she recognized her friend as she handed her cloak to one of the maids. The Lord and lady, she greeted with an embrace. Margaret's new husband, Sir John stepped forward out of the entryway and greeted Violet "Happy Christmas to you Mistress". With a broad smile Violet replied "Happy Christmas to you all. It was been a great crush in here this evening but we can find a place to sit. I am sure you wish to meet some of the other guests but I would dearly love some time to speak with Margaret". Lady Wesley smiled at Violet's exuberance and responded "Please take whatever time you like. We will not be leaving soon." Lord Wesley took his wife's arm and led her away through the crowd. Sir John excused himself to greet a few of his acquaintances from Court. Violet led her friend to a relatively empty corner of the room. "What has happened with my father and stepmother since I left" she asked breathlessly.

  "At first they seemed concerned when they came looking for you" Margaret explained to Violet "But after awhile your stepmother became angry. She would come over frequently and accuse my parents of either hiding you or kidnapping you". Margaret paused and looked towards where Lady Wesley stood talking to another woman. "The last time she flew into a tantrum" she continued "Father ordered the servants to refuse her admission after that". Violet had been gripping the sides of her stool while Margaret talked. She leaned forward and whispered "What of Hereward and Mistress Lisle?" Margaret held out her hands and shrugged. "They visited your house a few times after your disappearance. But in the last month none of them has been seen near there." After a moment she cocked her head to one side and added "Oddly enough, I have not seen your stepmother in the last month either." What this portended, Violet did not know. "Someone tried to abduct me on the day that I was presented to the king" she told Margaret matter-of-factly "And I have been told of at least one attempt to murder Baron Whitemount." Margaret reached out for her friend's hand and told her "Now that their plot is known, I do not understand what they hope to gain by continuing on with it". With her eyes turned upwards, Violet admitted "I do not understand either. I honestly believed that with their hope of gain thwarted all of this would end". "Do you have any good news since I saw you last?" Margaret implored. Violet turned a small smile towards the other woman. "It seems" she began "that I am to marry Lord Robert, the younger son of Grantham. I think I am supposed to meet him tomorrow".

The news of Violet's betrothal pleased Margaret. A smile lit her face as she exclaimed "We are invited back tomorrow night. Perhaps I can meet Lord Robert as well". This made Violet's smile become genuine. "If you were here it would make meeting him so much easier for me" she said happily. She almost said more but was interrupted by Lady Wesley. "Margaret, we need to go now. I think your husband is waiting for you also". Both girls looked up to see the two men near the door, cloaks in hand. The two women stood up and embraced. Margaret told her friend "I will see you tomorrow. Good Night and Happy Christmas". Violet realized how much good it had done her to see her friend. She looked longingly at the door through which she had left. After a quick glance around at the crowd, she decided she might as well go to bed since Mass would be very early in the morning. The hallway to her chambers was dark and empty. As she walked along she began to regret not bringing a candle with her. By feel she unlocked her door and pushed it open. The light in the fireplace was very bright compared to the black of the hallway. She started to shriek when strong hands clamped over her mouth and pushed her backwards into the room. The door slammed shut and cut off any hope of escape.

The hands left her mouth and grasped the back of her head. Before she could protest Violet was being roughly kissed. His breath was heavy with wine as his body pressed her forcefully against the wall. Almost instinctively she brought her knee up hard and was rewarded by a pained groan. Her assailant fell away and down to his knees. She was shocked at the face revealed in the firelight. "Thomas!" she cried "What on earth are you doing?" Through gritted teeth he replied "I am not quite sure at the moment. I know I was very drunk". He groaned again and struggled up on to a stool. "It seems that pain has a remarkable sobering effect". Spreading her hands out towards the door Violet pleaded "Please explain to me what this is all about". He dropped his head into his hands and softly said "I had this mad plan to make you love me. The neither you nor I would sign your marriage contract with Lord Robert. But now that my mind is clearer, the idea of forcing you sickens me". After another heartfelt groan he added "Though it appears that you have rendered that a moot point". Looking down at him, Violet was not sure if she felt repulsed by his admission or pained over his distress. "Thomas" she said softly "You need to stop thinking about me. We both know that I have no choice but to marry Lord Robert. I will always treasure your affection for me, but you cannot let it ruin your life". When he turned his face up to her, she was shocked to see tears streaming down his face. "Tell me that I have not forever soiled your good opinion of me" he pleaded with her. Her fingertips lightly brushed his hair as she replied "You have not. But you should not be here. Mayhap if you leave now, no one will notice since a lot of the servants have started leaving for Christmas". He opened the door. For a moment he paused as if he wanted to say more, but rushed away without saying anything. Violet ran up the stairs to her bed and cried herself to sleep.

Mass was indeed very early on Christmas morning. Many of the attendees looked as if they were there in body only. Christmas Eve revels all over the city had gone far into the night. Violet was able to sit next to Margaret during the Christmas luncheon. The dishes served probably violated several sumptuary laws. The two friends occasionally found themselves giggling over an unfamiliar delicacy. The seat meant for the Viscount of Berwick stayed empty throughout the meal. It seemed to Violet that no one besides her noticed his absence. A great iron trough was set in the front courtyard and a bonfire was set in it. After the last dish was served, the Earl dismissed the remainder of the household servants to celebrate Christmas with their families. Even those who had traveled with him from the north found somewhere to go. It was quite a sight as he stood outside near the fire giving out Christmas bonuses to them all as they filed past. The golden groats gleamed in the firelight before they vanished into pockets and purses. This night of the year most London streets would be well lit. Revelers, carolers and those simply visiting friends created a tapestry of torchlight against the twilight sky. When Lord Wesley told his family that it was time to go, Violet was unhappy to see Margaret leave. She had no idea when she might see her friend again. Once they were gone Violet made her way to her rooms. The Earl was still celebrating Christmas with his son, but Violet felt out of place with them.

The second day after Christmas was the day that Northumberland would host the first on many dinner parties leading up to Twelfth Night. Some of the servants had returned very late and progress on the preparations was slow. There were fewer overnight guests, but the house still seemed full to bursting in Violet's opinion. The young couple with whom Violet now shared her garderobe preferred to stay up late and rise late in the morning. This would have been of little consequence to Violet if it were not for the fact that the gentleman drank much more than he should. The sounds of him being ill made it difficult for Violet to sleep. This was also the day that Violet would finally meet her betrothed. She dressed with more care than usual that morning before she set about her routine. Deep in her heart she was certain that Lord Horton would not send her into marriage with an unkind man, though she steeled herself against hoping for more than that. She looked out the gallery windows as she passed through to the front of the house. The snow on the lawns outside was heavily trampled, but it was now so deep that it had retained its white color. If the snow was so thick here in the south, she shivered to imagine what it was like in the north. Master John waited in the main hall to usher her in front of the Earl. That Thomas was there also gave Violet pause. His face was solemn and still as stone. She gave him a slight bow and greeted them "Good morrow to you both. I understand that His Grace is ready to see me." Master John nodded slightly and replied "You are correct milady". Violet cocked an eyebrow at the change of address but followed him. He stopped to allow her to pass into the room ahead of him.  At first she saw an older well-dressed man seated near the Earl. Then she saw the man who stood to his left. Her knees turned to water and she dropped unceremoniously to the floor.

  "Arthur?" Violet asked weakly. The man who she thought never to see again helped her to her feet. His eyes were the same warm brown that she remembered. He smiled at her and replied "I suppose you can call me Robert now" She looked around the room at the puzzled faces of Northumberland and his secretary. Thomas's face betrayed his dismay, but she realized that no one besides herself would recognize it. "Are you here for the reason that I think you are?" Violet asked softly. He continued to hold her hand and answered "I suppose that I am. I must say that I am as surprised as you. At no time did I imagine that the heiress that my father found to be my bride was the black haired waif that I had left on the Marquis's doorstep." He spared a glance for the man who was apparently his father and added "I feel that I am blessed more than my due to wed such a gentle beauty". Violet blushed to the roots of her hair at the compliment. "You are too kind my Lord" she told him as she dropped her eyes. Robert's father broke into the conversation "I find it passing strange that this girl is apparently the destitute maiden you told me of. Do we know indeed that the Marquis is not foisting off some nameless peasant on us?" Northumberland called out "Pax cousin. I know Mistress Violet's antecedents. She is indeed the granddaughter of the late Marquis of Dorset through his third son. The circumstances under which she apparently met your son were extraordinary in more ways than you know." The Earl of Grantham sat back in his seat. From his expression it was obvious that he was not fully satisfied. "Very well cousin. I will accept your word in this matter." The two peers were uneasy in each other's presence. Northumberland's precedence over Grantham chafed the older man's pride and made him more irascible than usual.  Northumberland spoke up "We can get on with the signing I believe. His Lordship or Berwick is here to represent the Marquis". He signaled to his secretary who began to read "In so much as Richard Willoughby, Lord Horton, Marquis of Berwick is the legal guardian with all custodial rights of Mistress Violet Derington, daughter of Lavender Derington, niece of Lilly de Marche do agree to the marriage between her and Lord Robert Waverly, son of His Grace, Robert Waverly Earl of Grantham. In consideration of said custodial rights His Grace, Lord Robert Waverly has agreed to convey the sum of £750 to Lord Richard Willoughby, Marquis of Berwick, who shall in return relinquish and claim or interest in the Dower Estates of Mistress Violet Derington, said estates being specifically Yardley Hall, Le Marche Chase, and Afton Hall". After he had finished he laid the document on the table beside an inkwell and quill.

  The Earl of Northumberland stepped up and signed first. The heavy brass seal made a small sound and it impacted on the document, though to Violet it was as loud as the trump of doom. The secretary noted Northumberland's status as witness in chief. The Earl of Grantham signed second and his secretary applied Grantham's seal. As his grandfather's representative, Thomas signed next, followed by Lord Robert and Violet last of all. When all the signatures were in place, Northumberland instructed his butler to pour out glasses of Spanish sherry wine for all. Toasts were made to the newly betrothed. After the well wishes were finished, he commented "That is well and done. If we assume that the beastly weather will break after Twelfth Night, we can make for Horton Hall and see this marriage accomplished". Violet's puzzled reaction attracted the notice of Northumberland. "The Marquis" commented the Earl with a wolfish smile "Old skinflint that he usually is, has insisted on hosting the wedding feast." Grantham set down his glass, picked up his walking stick and headed for the door. Now that the legalities were finished, he saw no reason to remain in Northumberland's presence. "We shall bring along extra provisions then. Good day to you cousin" he called as he made his exit. Lord Robert looked longingly at Violet for a moment before he followed his father out of the door. When Thomas stalked out after them Violet decided it was time for her to retreat also. She made quick bow and fled the room.

The Viscount Berwick was still in the main hall as Violet walked through. "Now it is done" he called out to her. She stopped just inside the entry. His chilly manner showed no trace of the friend she had thought he was. "Yes it is done" she replied. A few quick steps brought him up to her. "When you leave for Horton Hall I will remain here" he told her "My grandfather can compel many things of me, but he cannot compel me to watch you marry another man". His unhappiness made her ache to comfort him, but she dared not because she knew he would take it for encouragement. In a low voice she rebuked him "I had hoped to have at least one friend witness my marriage. But do as you think best". Thomas flinched under the soft lash of her words. He said in a slightly calmer voice "I do think it best. Perhaps I can bring my feelings under control if there is some distance between us". Master John came into the room from the opposite door and gave them an odd look. Violet quickly said out loud "I am sorry that you will not be able to attend my wedding. Is there a message I can give your grandfather for you?" The steward continued on his way. Thomas simply said "No", turned on his heel and left. Violet remained where she was for several minutes until she was surprised by Master John's return. "My lady, His Grace has asked me to contact the seamstress and the milliner about your trousseau" he explained "They will arrive shortly as there is little time to have everything you need, though the Marquis provided ample funds. My Goodwife Catherine will be there to assist. And if you should have any questions......." He let the last sentence trail off suggestively. "My thanks to you master John" Violet responded "I shall be ready when they arrive".

How she survived that first dinner party, Violet was not quite sure. It seemed as half of the city of London came to look at her since the Earl of Grantham had announced the formal betrothal. The room was hot and stuffy from the press of sweaty bodies and the heat of the fireplaces roaring flames. Everyone in their finest clothes made the house doubly crowded. Powdered faces and scented clothing gave the room a dizzying overlay of odor. The heavy resinous perfume from the fresh pine boughs that hung everywhere just added to the miasma. Scores of well-wishers and the simply curious pressed her with toasts of wine and punch that made the clamor slightly more bearable. The bells had rung for midnight long before she was able to escape the dancing and retire to her chambers. And the whole thing would be repeated again the next night at the townhouse of the Earl of Grantham. This evening however, Lord Robert had attended without his father. The great crush of curious people had prevented him from dancing more than two sets with Violet. It had almost been a relief that the Viscount Berwick had not attended. When Martha roused her from her bed in the morning, Violet felt as if she had not slept at all. The day was another round of fittings for clothes, shoes, hoods and a million other sundries that would make up her trousseau. Goodwife Catherine had proved invaluable as she advised Violet on the varied decisions she had to make during the day. The constant stream of visitors continued throughout the day. Some bearing wedding presents, some merely to gossip. Long before it was time to leave for the Grantham townhouse, Violet was exhausted. Martha dressed her in one of the newer gowns and saw her into the sedan chair that would convey here there and back again later.

The Grantham townhouse was in a part of London very near the Tower. The Earl of Grantham maintained a permanent household here instead of leasing a house like Northumberland did. This house was more than half fortified, though the front entrance has been significantly enlarged and set with flanking windows. The night was bitterly cold but the great fireplaces and the crowds of people warmed up the inside of the hall considerably. The Earl gave Violet the place of honor at his right hand for the dinner. His eldest son and heir, Edward, Viscount Grantham, sat to Violet's right. He leaned over and spoke "We have never been formally introduced. But as you are to be my sister-in-law I feel we can dispense with formalities. Please call me Edward". Violet smiled through her nervousness and replied "I am pleased to meet you.......Edward. I would be happy for you to call me Violet". She leaned forward a little to see Edward's wife on his other side. "My wife's name is Elizabeth" he responded to Violet's obvious curiosity "Perhaps when a quieter time comes, the two of you can become acquainted". Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of some jugglers that had been engaged for part of the evening's entertainment. After dinner, most of the tables were cleared away to make room for dancing. As the guests of honor, Lord Robert and Violet started off the dancing. The song was a lively one which left Violet slightly breathless. When the music stopped, Violet discovered that they were next to a door. Lord Robert pushed this open and pulled Violet through the door after him.

The hallway was only dimly lit when Robert pushed the door shut behind her. "You looked as if you might need a bit of a breather" he offered by way of explanation. He walked down the hallway still holding Violet's hand. He opened another door which led them outside onto a stone paved courtyard. The overhang of the balcony above had kept this area free of snow. Violet shivered in the chill evening air. Robert surprised her by wrapping his arms around her. "That's a little warmer is it now?" He asked with his lips pressed to her hair. After a brief moment she relaxed into his embrace. One hand came up under her chin to tilt her face back. Before Violet knew what had happened he had captured her lips with his own. As gently as if she were a wild bird he held her chin as he caressed her lips, face and neck. With her eyes tightly shut, Violet savored the new feelings that he brought to life. A small part of her was amazed that she no longer felt the cold air. The suddenly Robert fell forward against her and she fell backwards onto the hard ground. From where he slid unconscious to the ground she looked up at two dark figures silhouetted against the dim starlight. Then a blow to the back of her head sent her swimming into darkness.

  The taste of the dirty rag was the first thing that Violet noticed when she regained consciousness. Then the pains began when her body reacted to the awkward position she had been left in, on her side with her hands tied behind her back. The pile of soiled canvas that she had lain on had not helped either. A flash of pain caused an involuntary groan as she tried to sit up. A little effort enabled her to sit up and lean back against a wall. Robert was leaning against the opposite wall, in much the same condition as herself.
Getting rid of the gag seemed to be her first priority. By pushing with her tongue and scraping her cheek against the wall she managed to push it off. "Are you hurt?" was the first thing she asked "And can you get your gag off?" He shook his head to answer no to both questions. A bump and a rattle at the door caused them both to jump. Hastily Violet pushed her gag back up so that it appeared to be in place. Her eyes widened in horror as the door opened to admit Hereward Lisle. His porcine face was even more repugnant to her now that she had not seen it an awhile. "You are not so high and proud now, are you Violet?" he asked as he squatted beside her. With one pale greasy hand he tried to reach out and stroke her face as Violet jerked her head away. He let out a low evil chuckle as he started to untie her legs. Frantically Violet tried to wriggle away from him. Grasping one ankle he jerked her forward and flat on the pile of rags before him. "I'll let your new friend watch while I have you" he said in a near growl "Do y' think he'll like that?"

Hereward stood up to and started to unfasten his hosen when Violet kicked at him as viciously as she could. Hereward slapped her hard across the mouth so that Violet's mouth filled with the iron tang of blood. "Get away from me she shouted as she made another attempt to kick Hereward. The blow missed, but he jerked in surprise when the door slammed open again. "I told you to stay away from her! If she is harmed she is useless to us for bargaining" Screeched Mistress Lisle. Hereward's whole body slumped into a sulk "I would not hurt her." He pouted "And we still got t' other one." Mistress Lisle jabbed a finger into her son's chest. "We need a guarantee of passage" she shouted "We will not get that if you despoil her and give them more reason for vengeance". While they argued Violet quickly pulled her legs back under her skirt. What she hoped was that Mistress Lisle would not notice that the ropes were loose. Mistress Lisle grabbed her son's arm and pushed him towards the door. "We will wait and see if an agreement can be reached" she told him "If not, well then we shall see". She pulled the door shut behind her. The rattle of the key in the lock was followed by the faint sound of footsteps. When she was sure that they were truly gone, she wiggled the ropes off of her legs completely. Once the gag was off again she whispered to Robert "Roll over onto your back so I can try to untie your hands". He raised an eyebrow at her quizzically, but he did roll over. It took some time to get into a position where her head rested on Robert's back. He jerked away when she tried to bite on his ropes. "Be still" she hissed "If we can not get out of here on our own, then I am as good as dead. I have no intention of sitting by quietly and letting that happen." Violet felt an unaccustomed anger building up inside her as she attacked the ropes with her teeth. By the time she had them gnawed down to the point where Robert could break them, her mouth was bloody and her teeth were sore. With his hands free, Robert removed his gag and gave Violet a quick kiss on the lips. As soon as they were both free, they took stock of their prison. The storeroom, for that was what it was had only one door and no window. Only two small openings let in air and light.

  "From this point on I will not be without a dagger, no matter how formal the occasion" Robert muttered as he examined the walls. With his back to Violet he told her "Two boards here are loose. If I had a dagger for leverage, I could pry them loose. Likely as not, the next room is unlocked. If this warehouse were in regular use they would not have put us here". Hurriedly, Violet scrabbled in the pile of canvas she had lain on. Triumphantly she held up the short length of iron that looked like half of a crate staple. After he wrapped his hand in a rag as protection from the sharp edge of the metal, Robert began working on the boards. Violet sent up a fervent prayer that their captors would not return untimely. It was slow going to pull the boards free, even as loose as they were. As she listened for the dreaded footsteps, Robert worked on the boards. Just when it seemed that his efforts would be fruitless, Robert gave a yelp. One of the boards pulled free. The second was quickly removed. Very carefully, Robert slid through into the next room. Violet followed close behind. The door was not exactly silent as it opened. But when they peered out the short hallway was empty. When they went out of the door onto the street, Violet realized that their troubles were not over yet.

The part of town where the warehouse was located was on alder and definitely seedy location. Even the air seemed dirty here as smoke from hundreds of greasy fires hung low in the streets and oozed down from crude chimney pots. The clothes that Robert and Violet wore made them stand out like a sore thumb. She pulled him back inside the warehouse door. "Quick, take off your doublet and jerkin" She ordered "and turn your jerkin inside out" As he followed her instructions, his face brightened as he realized her intentions. A quick look down showed that her dress already appeared torn and stained, especially around the hem. "You will be wearing the jerkin inside out" she instructed "so smudge a little of that hinge grease where it will show. Just a little as if the other side is much dirtier. Carefully she pulled a few strands of her hair loose and rubbed some of the grease on the ends, so that it did not appear freshly washed. Once she was satisfied with their appearance, she let Robert lead them back outside. He spared a wistful glance for the fancy doublet that he had abandoned before they shut the door behind them. The top of the White Tower could be seen easily even from this distance, so they started off in that direction.

  It seemed as if they would cross the town unscathed when a group of burly men blocked their path. One pointed a blackened finger at Robert and exclaimed "Gawdon Bennet! What do yew think yew are doin' peddlin' yaaahr doxie in my part ov town?" Violet could see Robert tense up and reach for a sword that was not there. "Blimey! My man an' me are just passin' frough. Give 'im da toll love. Nuff said?" Violet spilled out as quickly as she could. Inwardly she thanked her lucky stars for the rough talking scullery maid that worked in the kitchen at her home for years. It had been a great game to imitate the girl's speech when she was a child. At least it had been until her stepmother had heard her doing it and gave her a thrashing. "Gawdon Bennet! aye yew do what now." The lead ruffian muttered as he stood with crossed arms. Mercifully Robert still had his purse inside his breeches. He fumbled out several coppers and held them out on his outstretched palm. The leader nudged one of his compatriots who darted forward and snatched the coins. He chuckled evilly as he waved Robert past "Lawd above! dogs dinner doin' business wiv yew sirrah, innit." When they were several blocks away from the street gang, Robert whispered fiercely "When we get home you will explain all that to me!"

  The disguise which had stood them well in the rougher part of London, worked against in the more fashionable district. The looks they received varied from curious to downright hostile. But in these more familiar paths, Robert quickly regained his bearings. Since the Earl of Grantham's townhouse was closest, he steered them to that destination. It was well after dark and both of them were shivering when they reached their destination. It was no surprise when they found the gates locked and guarded. "What do you ragamuffins want here?" one guard called out in response to Robert's knocking. "Send someone to tell His Grace, that his son Robert has returned." He held his torch aloft and peered out at Robert. Then the guard laughed in his face and told him "Push off! You are drunk or a madman". Robert held his signet ring up under the guard's nose and replied in a deadly calm voice "You can take this to the Earl if you like. But I can assure you that you really do not wish to say anything of that sort to me again". The guard took the ring as it was passed through the gate and handed it off to one of the younger man. The tone of Robert's voice had convinced him he needed to show the ring to the Earl of Grantham as soon as possible. While they waited Robert grasped Violet's hands. "You are absolutely a treasure" he told her "I am fairly certain that your enemies had not an idea what a formidable opponent that you actually were".  Her eyes became slightly unfocused as she looked past his shoulder. "I have spent a lot of time these last weeks waiting for someone else to make decisions or take care of the problems in my life" she explained " I prefer to decide and to finally do something for myself".

The noise of the young guard as he huffed up the path drew their attention. The Earl of Grantham followed at a much more dignified pace. He was barely within the circle of torchlight when his grim expression changed to one of happy relief. "What are you simpletons doing standing there with the gates locked!" he shouted "Open the gates and let my son in". The older guard scrambled to do just that before his master reached the gates. The old Earl gathered his son in a fierce embrace. "Come inside" he said with a gesture that Included Violet "This looks like it will take a great deal of explaining."
They followed the Earl through the house. After they were settled in his office he started on Robert "It was quite late before we realized you were missing. It was morning before I could have the guard assembled to start a search. And now you turn up looking like you crawled through the sewers. Explain to me how this happened". Violet shot a sideways look at Robert that made him flush with embarrassment. "We... I mean I felt that I was a little warm and convinced Mistress Violet to step outside with me for some cooler air". The old Earl leaned forward and gave his son a knowing look. "What happened then?" he prompted. "I did not see our attackers in the dark before I was knocked down. Mistress Violet tells me that there were three of them. When I came back to myself, we were both trussed like capons. A man and a woman came into the room briefly.......I think that it was Hereward Lisle and his mother". Both men turned towards Violet who nodded vigorously. Robert continued "Mistress Violet was able to loosen some of her bonds and in turn loosened mine". Spreading his hands to take in the state of their garments he added "We found ourselves in a less than savory portion of the city. It seemed expedient to fit in with the locals". Grantham rang a bell that summoned his secretary.  It was only moments before he entered the room. "Where is this building in which you were held? I want these people taken as soon as it may be done." he asked his son. Robert hesitated before he answered "I do not know". They both looked at Violet in surprise when she interrupted "I can tell your guardsmen exactly where to look". To the men's dumbfounded expressions she responded "I counted the streets as we walked".

  The next morning, Violet was conveyed back to Northumberland's leased house amidst a large number of guards. Wrapped in furs in her sedan chair, she felt proud and slightly embarrassed by the crowd of men who surrounded her. The first person she saw when she entered the house was Thomas. His relief at seeing her was written all over his face. "You are unhurt?" he asked hesitantly. "A little bruised, but mostly I am unhurt" she answered.
"As soon as we knew you had returned safely, I persuaded His Grace that you should be moved out of the city sooner rather than later" he told her "We can be ready to move in two days". Violet's surprise showed in the wide-eyed look that she gave him as she replied "Very well. I can be packed and ready to go as soon as you like. I have not accumulated a lot that needs to be moved". Some stiffness returned to his manner as he added "We will be travelling with a squad of cavalry as well as whatever household that His Grace of Grantham feels the need of bringing. That will mean perforce that our progress will be slow. Also, you need to retain your own permanent staff before we leave London. I have made allowance in our travel arrangements for you to bring five servants with you." Taken aback, Violet commented "Five? I had never imagined so many" Thomas smiled in spite of himself. "You should select a secretary, a steward and a chamberlain here in London. It will be much harder to find someone with adequate training once you are away from the city. I can assist you with interviews if you wish". "I would be grateful for your advice" Violet responded, her brow furrowed in thought "It still seems rather odd to be planning my own household". The expression on Thomas's face had grown cold and distant. "Until I see you this evening then" he said and turned to leave.

  Violet had forgotten that the Earl of Northumberland had planned a dinner party for that evening until the guests had begun to arrive. Her betrothed arrived late in the afternoon. The story of their abduction and escape had eclipsed their engagement as the point of interest for the society gossips. After several retellings, Violet tried to stay close to Robert so that he could be the one to field the million and one questions. In the midst of the dancing, Master John interrupted her with a message "His Grace would speak privily to you and Lord Robert". Though this was unexpected, they followed the steward to the Earl's office. Once inside, Master John shut the door and left the two of them alone with the Earl. "I think you will be pleased to learn that the Lord Mayor's officers have apprehended Hereward Lisle and his mother. Your stepmother however was not with them" he announced abruptly "Lord Carrick insists that she vanished along with money and jewelry some weeks back". He pointed to a couple of low chairs in the room. Violet followed the unspoken command and sat down gingerly, wary of what might be next. Northumberland looked directly at her and continued "Since the day that we arrived in London, your father had daily sent messages asking to speak to you. I have not passed along his request since so many other arrangements need to be finalized. You should know that he had publicly repudiated his wife when her plots became common knowledge. If you wish to see your father, I will have the message sent. But of course, if you decide to see him or not is entirely your decision now". He turned to Robert and without a pause said to him "I congratulate you, my Lord, on having such a bride. Not many women of my acquaintance, when it came time for the courage to act, would have found it within themselves to do so".