"
"You understand that I cannot go far? And that if either of you try to
escape, I merely become an extension of my father---just as hard, just
as ruthless."
"Yes," she replied. "I ask nothing more."
... "Where would you suggest I go?"
"Our ancestral gravesite lies in the wooded dell, a quarter of a mile
from here, by the back path. There you may satisfy yourself that my
son was in fact killed in the war. Nay, don't be angry. I saw the look
that crossed your face when your father said those things about him.
If you are to remain as Mary's protector..... It's important to me
that you know they were not true."
"All right. I will remain in the dell for thirty minutes, no more.
Then I will ride in wide circles
about the house, to insure that no attempt is made to escape. I must
take her back, tonight. And the day is already growing long."
"Thank you," said the woman. "If you will truly act as the friend and
benefactor of my niece..... You will not only have my forgiveness, but
my gratitude as well."
Stephen nodded with an unreadable expression, and left the house.
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