Nora debated long and hard whether to bring Bea with her despite what she had told Marian and Warrington when she first announced her intention to travel to London. There were advantages and disadvantages to doing such a thing.

Of course, it was advisable to bring a companion with her on the journey. More than advisable. It was propriety and customary at that. Even she, who gave so little regard to what was customary or proper, recognized that.

Nora was not a seasoned traveler either. She had never left the shadow of Brambledon. Naturally she should have a companion with her, but there was still the very real matter of whether or not she could trust Bea.

She was asking a great deal of the maid. Not only to accompany Nora to London . . . but to not alert anyone in the house that they were leaving. It was not a small thing to ask—especially considering Warrington was her employer, and Bea was not of a reticent nature. It seemed much too likely the maid would reveal her plan to Marian.

Then Nora’s journey would be over before it had ever even started.

Even if Bea agreed, Marian would discover her absence—their absences—and soon. If Nora went alone, Warrington would be after her like an outraged papa.

Nora might have half a day head start at the most before the alert went up that she was gone. And yet Marian would worry less if she knew Bea was with her. There was that.

Taking Bea was her only hope. Plain and simple.

A nicely worded letter pleading her cause and Bea as a proper companion might save her. Marian might not send Warrington after her.

Ultimately, it was this that had her confiding her plans to Bea.

“London?” Bea nodded jerkily as Nora laid forth the details. “Truly? Yes, yes. yes. I will happily accompany you.”

Apparently she did not require much convincing.

The maid was so enthused at the prospect of a trip to London and having something to do with her time (finally) that she heartily agreed—with the promise that Nora would prevent her from getting sacked when their adventure was discovered.

“You won’t be sacked.” Nora hoped she was not mistaken in issuing forth such a promise and it was one she could honor. Certainly Warrington wouldn’t punish Bea for traveling with Nora. “Once we reach London, I’ll send them a letter and let them know I’m the guest of the Duke and Duchess of Birchwood. They’ll be mollified and will dare not come for fear of creating a stir. It’s only a scandal if they behave as though I stole away in the night without their permission . . . and reveal that to all and sundry.”