The general nodded. “My men could use a training exercise. We’ve been patrolling the streets, as you asked, but we need to show a mass of red coats every so often. Sunday would be good because people will be out and about.”

“No shots fired, mind you, even if you encounter the Mechanics,” the governor said. Although he’d apparently received what he’d asked for, he was frowning now. “No violence, except in self-defense.”

“Oh, you can count on that lot getting rowdy.” The general chortled. “That’s what happens with a load of ruffians. My men are sure to get some action.”

“Hubert, these aren’t the yokels they put down last century. These Mechanics are clever. Waving your guns may not impress them, and they aren’t going to throw bricks.” He snorted and cleared his throat with a loud, rasping sound. “That is, unless they’ve invented a steam-powered brick-throwing machine. Show off your drilled and disciplined troops and remind them of our military might, but we don’t want a battle.”

I’d never have told stories about the bedridden Lady Elinor or about the magister girls snubbing the general’s sons. But if the governor was going to make a military show of force and if the general was eager for a fight, then the rebels needed to know. Whether or not I considered myself a rebel, people I cared for might be hurt.

Before I could be caught eavesdropping, I turned to check on Rollo and the boys and then Flora and her friend. Still, I heard the voices discussing when and where to make their display. Unable to take notes, I concentrated on committing the details to memory.

When we returned home, a drowsy-looking Lord Henry was waiting for us. He asked his niece and nephew a few questions about the evening before sending them to bed, and then he hung back to walk up the stairs with me. I hoped he wasn’t hurt again. I was in no mood to deal with blood tonight.

He nodded toward the book I held. “I see you met Elinor.”

“Yes, I did. The book is for Flora to read. Lady Elinor wants us to come back and discuss it with her.”

“That’s a capital idea. Elinor could use the company, and with any luck, she’ll influence Flora a little.”

“Do you know Lady Elinor well?”

“We were children when my brother and her sister married. She forced me to dance with her at the wedding. Of course, that was before she became ill.”

“Do you know—or mind saying—what her illness is?”