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Pursing his lips, Devlin tried to think of any flaas s seemed well in order The prince should be safe and the conspirator caught in the act, allowing the governent from British soil

The only cause for concern was Anna’s role He was starting to have second thoughts about having her lure Lady de Blois to the re more than a sexual temptress, but the fact that she was involved in a traitorous conspiracy erous as a viper if cornered Anna was clever and intrepid, but if ainst someone who knew a number of sordid tricks—

He spun around at the soft click of the door latch releasing “I was beginning to worry that you had been spotted”

“I had to wait for thethe suit of ar to catch her breath “I’ve sent Caro to alert McClellan that you wish tofor the hunt”

“I’ve asked one of the ghillies to deliver the sae, but thank you”

“She wishes to feel involved in the action,” said Anna “I can’t say I bla constantly told you are too young or too inexperienced to help”

Devlin cleared his throat “Then I daresay you aren’t going to like what I say next”

The glint of anticipation in her eyes was replaced by a ht

“We reement,” he hastened to add “You proerous”

“Having provedout forletters and then was quick-witted enough to escape without being seen—don’t you think that I have earned the right to argue the point?”

“We don’t have time,” he muttered

“If you’re worried that I don’t kno to handle a pistol, you’re wrong My father believed all his daughters should kno to defend themselves Granted, I’ve not handled one of Manton’s pocket pistols, but the principle is the same And I’ll have you know that I’m an excellent shot”

“Lady de Blois er hidden away in her skirts,” he countered “And no co a mortal blow”

“You’re worried that I’m not a match for her?” asked Anna in a measured voice

“Yes” A breath broke free froht be hurt” And I couldn’t bear it