But when a muddied be-drenched young man strode in carrying an equally bedraggled young woman, the innkeeper wrung his hands in consternation. “Show me to a chamber at once,” Richard ordered. “We’re full up—‘xpectin’ passengers from a coach thet broke down a ways from here,” the innkeeper protested. Daphne raised her head from Richard’s chest. “Saddie,” she managed. “My—companion—came—with—coachman.” The innkeeper’s wife appeared at her husband’s shoulder wiping her hands on her apron. “Take’m to thet chamber wit ta cot fer the maid. Follow me husband, sir. “Rest easy miss,” she told Daphne. “I’ll fetch yer woman.” “I also require a chamber,” Richard told the innkeeper as he followed him up the stairs. “A maid’s chamber’ll have ta do ye on a night like this. Near o’er flowing,” the innkeeper said over his shoulder. “’Less yer wed, o’ course and share the best room.” Lady Laurel sighed. “If only Daphne hadn’t brought her companion with her.
