He touched the corner of his lips, and his fingers came away red. He must have cut himself when he fell. Using his cuff, he swiped at the blood. Lady Juliette could not stand the sight of blood, as he remembered from her encounter with ruffians in a London alley mere weeks ago.

“Little harm has been done. I am well, I assure you.” He’d suffered worse wounds shaving.

She nodded, but she averted his gaze. Once more he swiped at the trickle. Was he making it better or worse? He had no time right now for her squeamishness, and yet he didn’t want to leave her to faint on the cobbles.

Miss Montgomery and the viscount descended from the carriage. The viscount kept his arm around Miss Montgomery’s waist as they tried to take in what had happened.

“There appears to have been an explosion at the mill.” Daniel hated saying such in front of Miss Montgomery, but it was impossible to miss. More men hurried past them toward the stone structure. Smoke tendrils filled the air. “If neither of you are hurt, I must go help. There may yet be men to save.” Daniel gripped the viscount’s arm. “See to the ladies.”

He unclasped his cloak and swirled it around Lady Juliette’s shoulders. “Look after that for me.” He wouldn’t want to be encumbered by the garment if he was sifting through wreckage or fighting a fire, and she needed to be kept warm.

Daniel felt the back of the waistband of his trousers, reassured to feel his truncheon still there under his coat. As an officer of the Bow Street Magistrate’s Court, he must step into the crisis and lend aid.

Miss Montgomery broke free from the viscount and clutched Daniel’s arm. “My father! You must save my father. He was in there. Let me come with you.” Her eyes were like burning holes in her pale face, and fear etched her features. He hoped she wasn’t going to have a fit of hysterics, though he wouldn’t blame her.

Daniel shook his head. “No, it will not be safe for you. Stay, and if I’m able, I’ll bring him to you.” He caught the viscount’s eye and jerked his head. “Keep her here. And help the tiger with the horses.”

The viscount’s mouth set in a sour line, as if he was not in favor of taking orders from a mere peace officer, but Daniel ignored his pettiness. With a last glance at Lady Juliette, he joined others hurrying toward the mill. He still felt sore and light-headed, but he had a job to do.