Page 17 of Against the Wind

“Well, according to our…er, contacts…it seems hundreds of the unhappy weavers were marching in the rain to London to harass the Prince Regent. Fortunately, many were arrested outside Stockport, and the rest turned back as they were about to enter Derbyshire. Sidmouth was certain they were gathering an army. Couldn’t have that now, could we?”

“An army?” echoed Ormond. “Hungry men carrying blankets through the cold rain?”

Martin knew his friend well enough to see his suppressed rage, but the two older men seemed oblivious to Ormond’s biting sarcasm.

“Well, it was the numbers don’t you know. So many. Sidmouth believes the seat of the rebellion is in the Midlands.” Castlereagh continued to pontificate, unaware of the reception of his words, while Eldon looked as if he were becoming increasingly uncomfortable.

“I do believe my wife will be looking for me,” the older man said abruptly, gazing toward the ballroom. “I’d best wish you gentlemen a good evening.”

As the Chancellor strode off, Castlereagh made his apologies and followed.

“Well,” said Ormond, “that was short but illuminating.”

“One cannot help but wonder just who their ‘contacts’ are,” Martin remarked. “And whether they hired them or used one of their fellow peers more willing to engage in such activities.”

“That question looms large in my mind as well,” said Ormond. “That was a bit awkward for Castlereagh, don’t you think?”

“Quite. And I had the feeling Eldon was not at all at ease with the subject. Perhaps he is disquieted with all that Sidmouth is doing, especially if he is worried about being drawn into it.”

“Indeed. Well, at least you’ve now met some of those central to the government’s schemes. Your task will be to find the rest and learn all they are doing.” Ormond’s eyes suddenly darted toward the wide doorway into the ballroom and he said, “I had better see what my wife is up to. It is never wise to leave Mary alone for too long.”

It was most unusual for Ormond to be distracted, but Martin understood. A wife had changed many things in his friend’s life. And, Ormond was correct. The former Lady Mary could easily become involved in something controversial, though it seemed the hoyden had settled down a bit with her marriage. “I’ll join you.”

They stepped into the ballroom just as the orchestra stuck up a waltz—and Martin froze. Standing not twenty feet before him was the object of his long search, shimmering in a silver gown that reflected the lights above, her only other adornments her auburn tresses and a string of pearls. Even here, amidst the ton’s finery, she stood out, once again an ethereal creature.

“Kitten,” he muttered under his breath. She stood with two debutantes and an older man and woman, her back to the dancing couples. She appeared unaware of the attention she was drawing from the men around her, but Martin saw the looks they were giving her and felt a wave of jealousy sweep over him.

“What is it, Martin? Why did you stop? What are you staring at?”

“She is here. Just there.”

Out of the corner of his eye Martin saw Ormond’s head turn toward Kit. At the same time, Kit turned her face to the side and it became a mask of horror. Whatever she saw had shaken her badly.

A man. She was looking at a man.

“Who is that?” Martin said, gesturing for Ormond.

“That,” Ormond informed him, “is the man you have been asking about. The Earl of Rutledge.”