‘I’m worried, Paul,’ she said. ‘How did he know where I live?’

‘I daresay he got someone to follow us back here.’

She shivered. ‘That frightens me. What else has he been doing?’

‘Finding out everything he possibly can about you,’ he told her. ‘That alone is reason enough to tear up the invitation. Pretend that it never came.’

‘But it’s … in the nature of a command.’

‘You’re not at his behest, Hannah. Ignore him completely and he’ll soon go away.’ He saw the indecision in her eyes. ‘Oh dear, I think I can read your mind. You’re actually tempted to go.’

‘Part of me is,’ she confessed. ‘I’ve heard so much about Brighton Pavilion. It’s supposed to be absolutely sumptuous. Seeing it from the outside would be a delight but being allowed inside would be a magical experience.’

‘His Royal Highness has another magical experience in mind.’

She laughed. ‘Don’t be vulgar.’

‘Well, he’s not asking you there so that you can discuss Shakespearean drama. We both know that Prinny has taken an unhealthy interest in you. He has a reputation, Hannah, and it’s one that you should bear in mind.’

‘Common sense tells me that I shouldn’t go.’

‘I endorse that decision.’

‘But I’ll never get such an opportunity again, Paul.’

‘Is it that important to you, my love?’

She was honest. ‘The idea is growing on me …’

‘Then accept the invitation,’ he said. ‘You can go in all your finery and I will be at your side to protect you.’

‘But you can’t do that.’

‘Why not?’

‘Don’t you remember? Mr Yeomans came here to pass on that message. You must not interfere in the investigation of that murder outside the theatre. If he lays eyes on you at the Pavilion, His Royal Highness will have you instantly thrown out.’

‘He won’t even think of doing that, Hannah.’

‘Yes, he will. You saved me from him once before. He won’t forget that.’

‘I’ll explain that it wasn’t me. I didn’t rescue you at the theatre. It was actually my brother, Peter.’

‘But it wasn’t, Paul. It was you.’

‘I know that,’ he said, winking an eye, ‘but Prinny doesn’t. Besides,’ he added, airily, ‘it’s high time that Peter came in useful for once. The decision is made. I’ll be taking you to the Brighton Pavilion in his name.’