She could hear the laughter in his voice and she turned back to face him. ‘You might think all this is funny, Harry, but I want to know what your being here might mean to the rest of the family. Do you think that Monks and his men might try to find you?’

‘It’s possible, but I don’t intend to remain here for very long.’

Kate sank down on an armchair, which sagged in the middle. One leg was slightly shorter than the others, so it rocked dangerously, but she was too interested in what Harry had to say to worry about a rickety seat. ‘Why? Where are you going? I’m not helping you until you tell me exactly how we stand and what you’re planning.’

‘If you’re afraid that the police will come looking for me – don’t worry. My escape from prison was done with their full knowledge, but it must be kept secret. Monks will have a false sense of security if he thinks I am still incarcerated. The net is closing in around him.’

‘Does he know that you own this estate?’

‘I haven’t lived here for years.’

‘I don’t know why, Harry. I love Warren House and it’s a wonderful family home.’

‘I was happy here as a child, but when my father gambled everything away, I set my sights on restoring the family fortunes. I do keep an eye on the old place and visit from time to time.’

‘Martha was keeping ready for your return with every room clean and aired. She’s a jewel of a housekeeper, and Arthur has done his best, too.’

‘I know I’m very lucky to have such loyal servants. One day, maybe, I might decide to come and live here and enjoy the quiet life, but not yet.’

‘You could hide out here, Harry. Morrison won’t say anything, and neither would I.’

‘It would be inviting trouble. Someone might see me and then it would be all round the village. Above all, I want to keep my family safe, and that includes you and Lady Martin.’

‘I understand. Where will you go?’

Harry hesitated, meeting her anxious gaze in a way that made her fear the worst. ‘If I tell you, I want you to keep it a secret.’

‘Of course I will. You can trust me, Harry.’

‘Some of my clients were men with influence in high places, some of them in the military. I learned that Annie’s brother, Joseph Blythe, was badly wounded in the uprising. I intend to bring him home, but I don’t want Annie to be told. The poor girl had enough to contend with.’

‘You’re going to India?’

‘I’m travelling on a troop ship, which leaves tomorrow.’

‘I wish I could come with you.’