Holding the wound open, Signor Horatio dug the knife into her flesh. Rose clamped down on the spoon’s shaft and, through clenched teeth, let out an anguished cry. Ever so slowly, Signor Horatio prised the lead shot from her belly. As the bullet came free, Rose gasped and passed out. Now the blood flowed freely, and Signor Horatio pressed his hand hard against the wound.

‘Over to you and your herbal magic, Yori,’ said the sword master, stepping aside.

From his pouch of medicines, Yori selected a dark paste that he’d previously prepared for Jack’s injuries. Gently applying the healing salve, he began to bandage Rose and was almost finished when there was a knock on the door and Sir Henry looked in. ‘How’s the patient faring?’ he enquired.

‘Signor Horatio has succeeded in removing the bullet,’ replied Jack, helping Yori tie off the bandage.

The sword master tenderly pushed aside a lock of red hair from Rose’s face. ‘By God’s grace, she’ll live.’

‘That’s good to hear,’ said Sir Henry, the relief evident in his voice. ‘I’ve spoken with Sir Toby and he’s deeply remorseful. He’s agreed not to inform the authorities of your whereabouts, if in turn you’ll overlook the, er … accident with the pistol.’

‘Accident? That was no accident!’ roared Signor Horatio, anger flashing in his eyes. ‘The idiot tried to shoot Jack and ended up almost killing Rose!’

Sir Henry offered a conciliatory smile. ‘I understand you’re upset, sir. But it’s best for everyone that we don’t involve the authorities. While I may have some influence, I could not promise to stay the heavy hand of the law completely. And we don’t want you arrested again now, do we, Jack?’

‘But what about my sister?’ demanded Jack, feeling hot tears sting his eyes at her loss.

With a regretful look, Sir Henry replied, ‘A tragic accident. Sir Toby can barely bring himself to talk about it.’

‘Then where’s her body?’ he persisted. ‘Where was she buried?’

‘I believe she lies in the parish graveyard,’ said Sir Henry, making the sign of the cross in respect. ‘I can take you there tomorrow. But, for now, I’d advise agreeing to Sir Toby’s terms. It is far better to be a free man nursing your grief than an imprisoned man trapped with it.’

Jack cursed Sir Toby’s cunning. He had Jack and his friends at his mercy with that false conviction. The vile man had not only shot Rose but was responsible for Jess’s death too, yet he would get away scot-free. ‘Just ensure Sir Toby keeps his word.’