“Surprisingly pleased,” she said. “Kirkland is an impressive spider, and if Hazel is a good example, he finds excellent people for his investigations.”

“When I was in Brussels before and after Waterloo, I met other people of Kirkland’s and yes, they’re all very intelligent and good at what they do.”

“Hazel will surely find where Christopher is, won’t she?” Kendra asked wistfully.

“I believe she will,” Lucas said. “And if she fails, we’ll find him in another way.”

“Thank you for saying what I need to hear. I hope I’m not becoming tiresome.” She swallowed hard. “Ever since Christopher was born, I’ve had nightmares of him being ripped from my arms,” she whispered. “Even though he’s a proper little boy now, I still see him as a helpless infant, and there is nothing I can do to save him.”

He put his hand over hers where it gripped his arm. “You’ve some Scots blood, so perhaps it’s a touch of the Sight, and you saw him being taken from you some time in the future. Now that that has happened, it’s time to change your nightmares to dreams of being reunited with him.”

“Do you think that will help?” she asked doubtfully.

“It can’t hurt. Our worst fears can take over our minds, yet often things turn out better than expected.”

“Has that happened to you?”

“Oh, yes, several times I was sure I was going to die, and I didn’t,” he replied. “I also felt that I would be forever estranged from my earlier life and family, yet here I am. Somewhat confused, but slowly sorting myself out.”

“You looked very pleased when Lady Kirkland asked if you would work as a bonesetter at her infirmary.”

“I am. I’m as much a healer as a sailor, and that part of me has been neglected since Waterloo. Burned out, perhaps. So many wounded.” He fell silent for a dozen paces. “It seemed as if anyone in Brussels who could carry water or wrap a bandage or help a wounded man walk was helping. It was quite extraordinary, equally rewarding and exhausting.”

She’d read stories of the quiet heroism of the people of Brussels. “I imagine that Suzanne was working right next to you?”

“Yes, along with every other person residing in the house.” He sighed. “I wish I could have done more.”

“All we can do is our best.” She smiled wryly. “Guilt at not being able to do more is optional.”

“What? I thought guilt was compulsory.” He glanced at her and they both laughed. She was rather amazed that despite all the problems she faced, she could laugh with Lucas.

“A bonesetter once reset my shoulder after I was thrown from my horse,” she said. “The pain was excruciating, yet he was able to end it within moments. Extraordinary.”