Without another word he walked on in front of them to the top of the street, where a coach was waiting. He signed to the driver, who wore the Craven livery.
"My man will take you wherever you choose, madam," he said.
"I would be driven to Somerset House," said Patience.
He started and looked askance at her. She understood.
"You gave me your name, I must give you mine," she said. "I am Mistress Patience Beaumont and this young girl is Agnes De Lisle, my niece. We are the queen-dowager's guests."
Lord Craven uttered an exclamation of surprise and swept them a low bow.
"I have been fortunate in meeting you," he said; "but take my advice and do not wander out so late at night."
"We have been to see a protégé of yours," said Patience, "Ann Newbolt."
"Ah, I am glad!" he answered; "she needs friends, poor thing."
Then he signed to his valet to open the coach door, and helped Agnes and Patience to mount, for the step was high. Martha followed, and they were driven quickly in the direction of Somerset House.