“Marc, where have you been? How on earth did you get here—and what are you doing in footman’s livery?” “What d’you mean, what am I doing here?” the young man before her replied indignantly. “I’ve been looking for you! You might have told a fellow you were living in the lap of luxury. Good God, if you knew what I’ve been through!” “How did you know where to find me? Did you get the message I left for you at the Swan?” “Of course I did. Why else would I be here? What I don’t understand is what you’re doing here. Why didn’t you come to the Swan as I asked? You’ve put me in the deuce of a pelter, y’know.” “Oh, Marcus!” exclaimed Diana, “I’ve had the most wretched time. I was on my way to the Swan, but I was abducted, and then—” “Abducted! My God, are you all right?” “Yes, but you cannot imagine how dreadful it was, and then the earl—” “Yes,” interposed Marcus, “I must hear all about it, but not now. I’m one of the hired help in this overgrown puzzle box, and I can’t be seen standing around chatting with the nobs.”
