‘Trust me, sir. I have thought this through, and my mind is clear on the matter. I will fight them as tenaciously as the next man. And given that it is the Navy who forms our country’s first line of defence, it is likely that I shall be called upon to prove myself far sooner than you are.’

It was a point well made and Arthur saw no further profit in continuing the debate, not least because he sensed Kitty’s growing fury and had the good sense not to strive for a Pyrrhic victory over his rival.

It was dark when the carriage dropped him at his lodgings in Fostertown and he politely bade the others good night before mounting the steps to the front door. As he entered the hall Arthur discovered a letter waiting for him in the mail rack, and at once recognised the hand of his brother Richard. He broke the seal and began to read. Richard was as terse as ever, and informed Arthur that he had managed to persuade Lord Camden to appoint him to a useful position within the government of Ireland.To be sure it was not as significant a post as Arthur might hope for, but it would provide a sound basis for further advancement.

Arthur read on, then frowned and read the last paragraph again before lowering the letter with a sick feeling.

‘Oh, Richard,’ he muttered. ‘What have you done to me?’

Chapter 13

Chapter 13

‘This is just what I needed first thing on a Monday morning,’ Lord Camden grumbled. He leaned forward in his chair and continued testily, ‘It was my understanding that you wanted a government appointment. And yet here you are, bearding me in my bloody office on a matter of some vital urgency - so your note said - and now you tell me that you don’t want the job.’

‘That’s not quite it, sir,’ said Arthur anxiously. ‘Of course I want the position, and I’m very grateful that you have considered me worthy of it.’

‘I haven’t, but your brother was a most eloquent advocate on your behalf.’

Arthur did not doubt it, and wondered what political favour had been promised in return for his appointment as Surveyor General of the Ordnance. It did not matter. There was no question of his taking the post. Not if he wanted to stand any chance of finally winning Kitty as his wife.

‘My lord, may I explain?’

‘Please do.’

‘The present Surveyor General is Captain Pakenham.’

‘I know that, thank you.’

‘His niece is Kitty Pakenham.’

Lord Camden stared back at him for a moment and shook his head. ‘Never heard of her.’

‘She is the woman I intend to marry, my lord. As soon as circumstances permit.’

Lord Camden’s eyes widened as he grasped the point. ‘Ah! I see, young man. It would not be good form to depose your lady’s relative.’