“Honfleur is joining the others in the private room,” Orson informed the table.

Beaufort suggested, “It might be best if you and Duncan depart now, Marksman. You can return to the town house and keep an eye on who comes and goes and who returns. We do not want any of the three to recognize either of you. So far, neither Orson nor I have held a conversation with the man or his daughter, though I mean to make my first call upon Lady Caroline tomorrow. I fear this plan is bigger than any one Frenchman—bigger than any of us expected.”

Although Alexander knew Beaufort to be correct, he did not like the idea of leaving Miss Moreau behind. He felt it necessary for him to watch over her in case trouble arrived.

Duncan nodded sharply before tossing a few coins on the table. “You and I will stand up together, Alexander. In thatmanner, my backside will block the women’s view of our exit. You will lead.”

Alexander indicated his agreement; yet, before he stood, he leaned towards Orson to say, “Know assurance that Honfleur does not abuse Miss Moreau.”

Orson’s eyebrows rose in obvious amusement. “Are you sweet on the woman, Marksman?”

Alexander shook off the idea. “I am not; yet, I cannot unknow the idea that Miss Moreau does not totally grasp the magnitude of what Honfleur plans.”