Kate eyed him thoughtfully. ‘Not necessarily. We don’t need to possess the articles, Monks simply has to believe they are there for the taking. Where do you think he gets his information from?’

‘I’ve never thought about it like that.’

‘It must be someone who is quite high up in society. Perhaps that person travels abroad quite often and that would account for Monks knowing when and where to strike.’

‘It would take time to follow up that idea, Kate. It’s a good one, but I’ve managed to infiltrate the gang and I’m hoping to get the details of their plans very soon. I know how these people work and I don’t want you to get involved.’

Kate could see that arguing was pointless. When it came to protecting those closest to him she knew that Harry would not be swayed. ‘I understand, but I’d better start walking back to Finsbury Square. It looks like rain and it might even snow.’

He wrapped his arms around her and held her close. ‘Don’t do anything foolish, Kate. I’ll sort this out very soon now and we’ll be together again.’

She allowed herself a few moments of respite, leaning against him and breathing in the scent of him, which was achingly sweet and so familiar. The months they had spent on board ship had been precious and she was not going to let their closeness slip away, but if Harry had a stubborn streak then she had one to match. She drew away reluctantly.

‘I must go now, Harry.’

He grasped her by the hand. ‘I’m sending you home in a cab.’

‘I’m supposed to be incognito, Harry. Servant girls walk everywhere or take a bus.’

‘My future wife is not going to walk from Wapping to Finsbury Square, Kate Martin.’

‘Your wife? When did you propose to me? I think I might remember something like that.’

‘I thought we had an understanding, my love.’

‘All the more reason to get this done quickly, Harry. I think you’re placing yourself in great danger. I’m sure there is an easier way.’

He proffered his arm. ‘Let’s get you home. The weather is taking a turn for the worst.’

‘You can avoid the truth as often as you like, but I think you need my help, Harry, and I’m not giving up.’

He kissed her briefly on the lips. ‘That’s why I love you, but I won’t allow you to put yourself in danger. Leave it to me, Kate. It will be over soon and then we can get on with the rest of our lives, but please, if you love me at all, persuade your mother to return to Warren House. I’ll pay a call on my mother and see if I can make her see sense.’

Chapter Twenty-Five