‘They say he’s not the first, and he won’t be the last!’ Harold went on, not noticing the uneasy looks being exchanged between Jack, Yori and Akiko. ‘Rumour has it there’s a whole trail of bodies, from Limehouse to Ludgate. These are dark and dangerous times, my friends!’

Picking up his wine goblet, he took a long draught and finished it off. ‘Anyways, where are you folks headed?’

‘Stratford,’ Jack replied distractedly, his thoughts consumed by Harold’s story. Was the apparition outside the window last night a plague doctor? Or was it something even more sinister … something connected to the rumours of killer shadows?

‘Well, if you’re going that way, take the high road out of town,’ advised Harold. ‘The low road’s flooded and has become almost impassable.’

‘Thank you for the warning,’ said Akiko, smiling warmly at him.

‘You’re welcome, miss.’ Setting down his empty goblet, Harold’s eye was caught by the glint of silver round Jack’s neck. ‘That’s a fine locket. Is it your sweetheart inside?’ he asked, glancing at Akiko.

‘No, it’s my little sister,’ replied Jack, opening up the locket and showing Harold Jess’s portrait. ‘She’s missing. Have you seen her by any chance? I believe she may have travelled this way.’

‘Let me have a closer look.’ Harold peered at the miniature, then regretfully shook his head. ‘Sorry, no, but I’ll keep an eye out for the lass.’

‘I’m sure you will!’ said Rose, inserting herself between Jack and their guest. ‘Now be gone and try your luck with those coneys over there.’

Harold scowled at Rose, who unflinchingly stared back. Then he stood and bowed stiffly to Jack, Akiko and Yori. ‘A pleasure meeting you. May you continue safe on your journey.’

As he traipsed off to the other table of travellers, Akiko stared in astonishment at Rose. ‘Why were you so rude? He was just being friendly.’

‘Too friendly,’ replied Rose. ‘Seems like a courtesy-man to me.’

‘What’s a courtesy-man?’ asked Yori.

‘A courtesy-man is a con man, a thief. You see those fine clothes he’s wearing?’ said Rose. ‘Likely they ain’t his. Probably stolen off the last traveller who fell for his charm.’

Akiko looked aghast. ‘I don’t believe it. He seemed so nice. Surely not every Englishman’s a thief?’

‘Of course not,’ Rose replied, the corner of her mouth curling into a sly grin as she produced a small leather purse. ‘Women can be too. But we’re better at it!’ She nodded in Harold’s direction. ‘Dinner’s on him tonight.’

‘Well, we’re not thieves!’ said Akiko, snatching the purse from Rose. She chased after Harold, calling, ‘You dropped this.’

Harold blinked in surprise. ‘Why, thank you, Akiko,’ he said, reattaching the purse to his belt. ‘It’s rare to come across such honest folk these days. I do hope I can return the favour one day.’