"Adelaide, then," I said, "may I ask you a question?"
"As many as you like."
"Do you know where Isobel is now?"
Her surprise was obviously genuine.
"Why, of course not! Is she not at your house in London?"
I shook my head.
"She is a few hours in front of us on her way to Paris," I said, "with your mother and the Baron von Leibingen and the rest of your people. She is travelling in your clothes and in your name. That is why you were left to follow as quietly as possible."
She laid her hand upon my arm. Her eyes were full of tears, and her voice shook.
"Oh, I am so sorry," she cried softly, "so very sorry. Why cannot my mother leave her alone with you? I am sure she would be happier."
"I think so too," I answered. "That is why I am going to try and fetch her back."