Julia did not comment, which was comment enough. How had I been cast as the villain in this piece? After all, I had been right about Hester accompanying us to see Evan. Besides, Dr. McLeod’s latest examination had concluded that she had rallied a little but not enough to be moved. Not yet.

“If she had spoken to me, I could have told her that I have written to Charlotte on their behalf,” I said. “If Lord Davenport is not in residence at their estate, she might be able to offer them refuge under the guise of an extended visit from us. What do you think? It is the best I can come up with at present.”

Julia considered the option. “It places a great deal upon Charlotte, and we have already asked so much of her.” She bit her lip—a prelude to something preying upon her mind. “My dear, you may want to consider including Lady Hester and Miss Grant in these decisions. They may think it unsuitable.”

I frowned. “Unsuitable? They do not have that many options, do they?”

“Even so, one does like to have control over one’s own life. Especially after having so little.”

I did not know why my sister was being so particular. “Certainly, but at the moment, that control is somewhat hampered by Hester’s condition. Charlotte is the best option and you know she will do it gladly. Anyway, I have sent the letter so we should hear back soon, either way.” I pointed my foot and studied my secondhand boots. “Do you think they look too new?” I asked my sister.

“Hardly,” she said. “They are appalling.”

“Well, I shall find some mud in the stables and walk through it,” I said. “To be safe.”

“Safe?” My sister snorted. “You do realize that our ruse at Hatchards has more or less confirmed to the Runners and Mulholland that we are trying to move without their surveillance, and thus are likely to be meeting with Lord Evan.”

“I know,” I said soberly.

“Then how do you propose to get out of the house without being followed?”

“I will exit the mews with Thomas and Samuel. We are to be fellows slipping out for some fun.”

Julia’s mouth pursed. Unconvinced.

I picked up a collection of coins—a few half crowns, shillings, farthings, pennies, and sixpences—and shoved them into my jacket pocket. I had learned to be armed with money, for it could oil a situation better than wits or weapons. “They are not going to be looking for me dressed in men’s clothes, are they?” I added. “Especially the clothes of a workingman.”

“I suppose not,” she conceded. “Do you propose to enter the club?”

“I do not know. Lord Evan and I will figure it out when we are there.”