“What did you say?” Alyna asked in a frightened tone. “I told her that we were married and the announcement would be in The Gazette today,” Lord Dorrington answered. “Also that I was prepared to make her an allowance of one thousand pounds a year, together with a house in London, as long as she did not attempt to see you unless you actually invited her to do so.”

Alyna gave a little gasp and then she said,

“That is very – generous of you.”

“I am concerned with your peace of mind,” Lord Dorrington said. “It is not for me to dictate to you whether or not you should see your mother, but I think, for the moment, you would be wise to avoid her company. Arguments and recriminations are usually upsetting and I have no wish for you to be upset.”

“I am sure you are right,” Alyna said. “But I would rather not go to London.”

“I am sorry about that,” Lord Dorrington said quietly, “but I have already given orders for your maid to pack your clothes and I am looking forward to showing you Dorrington House in Mayfair.”

Alyna realised by his tone of voice that he had made up his mind and that nothing she could say would alter it.

There was something inflexible about him, she thought, something that made her feel that any argument she might put forward would not only be ineffective but would sound childish.

There were many things she wanted to say, but she checked them before they reached her lips.

“How are we travelling?” she asked at last.

“How would you wish to do so?” Lord Dorrington enquired.

There was a faint smile on his lips as if he realised that he had won a battle without unnecessary opposition.

“What do you suggest?”

“I naturally would prefer to drive my high-perch phaeton,” he said, “and it’s a very pleasant day. But if you would rather travel in a coach?”

“No, I would hate to be cooped up,” Alyna said quickly. “Let’s go in your phaeton, it travels quickly.”

She had a sudden fear that there would be armed men all along the route waiting to shoot at them. Then she told herself that once again she was being ridiculous.

But now it was not for herself that she was afraid, it was for Lord Dorrington.

The man who had attempted to murder him was dead, but how many more would the Prince send?

How could she ever be certain that they were not lurking in every dark alley, in every shrub, behind every door, under every bed?

Last night she had told Lord Dorrington that someone might kill him while he was asleep. At the time that had been only a figment of her imagination. But now it was not only a possibility but a probability.