He heard the faint rustle of movement as she turned his way. “What happened to your French accent?” she asked a bit stiffly. He hesitated, uncertain how to reply. “As you see, I … I have guessed who you are,” she added. “Have you?” “Aye, but you need not fear me, either. And although I do not approve of secrets or clandestine behavior, I did want to seek your advice. Therefore, for the present, I shall acquit you of any ill intent in concealing your identity.” “Will you?” Still feeling his way, he added, “Forgive me, but I am not certain I understand what you are saying, Lady Adela.” “Will you deny that you have affected a French accent, sir?” Although tempted to deny it categorically, he did not want to lie to her unless it became necessary. So he said, “I will admit that from time to time I have found it useful to affect such an accent, and others, for that matter.” “I knew it!” Her tone was lighter, less strained than before. “What did you know?”
