“Goodbye, Father,” Margaret said, holding out her hand. “And thank you again for coming to my rescue. Why,” she hissed, as she was shepherded away, “are you glowering, Lochiel?”

“You oughtn’t to have given him your name and address.”

“He’s a man of the cloth, and well-connected, too, if he had a living in Cheltenham. He is obviously a man with a calling. One cannot help but admire . . .”

“Thank heavens.” Lochiel hailed a passing hackney carriage, helping her in before giving directions and climbing in after her. “That was a stroke of luck. I am sure there is much to admire about the fellow, but I am still of the opinion that you should not have given him your details. He might come calling, begging for alms or whatnot, at Montagu House.”

Margaret turned towards her escort, whose smile was somewhat strained. “If he does, he will not leave empty-handed. Thank you for your forbearance today, it is most appreciated.”

“I wasn’t bored, if that’s what you’re suggesting. I doubt anyone could be bored in your company.”

“My father might disagree. What time is it, if you please? My boots and my gown are filthy. I don’t want Mama to see me like this. I led her to believe we would be taking a stroll in the park.”

“It is only just after three. We will be there in another ten minutes. Lady Margaret, I must tell you that I return to Berlin tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow! Why didn’t you mention that before? I have taken up almost all of your last day, when you should have been packing and saying goodbye to your friends.”

“I wouldn’t have missed today for the world.” Lochiel cleared his throat. “Before I go, I must ask you—forgive me, I know that it is none of my business, but do you intend to marry Killin? It seems to me, you see, that your feelings for him have not changed significantly from those you confided in me that night.”

“How do you know that?”

His cheeks coloured. “I should not have touched on such a personal matter.”

Margaret hesitated. “I thought no-one noticed how I felt.”

“You keep it very well-disguised in public.”

“I am most grateful for your concern, but you need not worry. My heart may be insubordinate, but it no longer rules my head. If Killin renews his suit, then I shall accept him.”

Lochiel opened his mouth to speak, then changed his mind as the carriage came to a halt. “Here we are, Montagu House,” he said, looking out of the dusty window before turning back to her, to her surprise catching her hands between his. “I wish you the very best for your future happiness.”

“Thank you. I suspect I’m going to need it. Won’t you come in?”

He shook his head. “As you pointed out, I have a great deal to do.”

“When will I see you again?”