Mark of Caine Trilogy: Book One: Hidden in the Shadows (Victorian Villains) by Catherine Lloyd

Author:Catherine Lloyd [Lloyd, Catherine]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Writewood Creations
Published: 2016-05-01T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Five

DOCTOR RUTLEDGE glared at Mrs. Sutherland as though it was her fault. Mrs. Sutherland began to cry.

“This will be a black mark on this institution—a black mark,” he said severely. “One of our female inmates caught in a sexual embrace with a male visitor! All right then, put your clothes on. Do not stand there risking further damage to your reputation. A daughter of a peer of the realm. A cousin to Queen Victoria—oh God, it doesn’t bear thinking about.” He rubbed his face. “We are already under scrutiny by those fools who don’t understand what we are trying to accomplish here.”

“Her father is the real culprit if you ask me,” sniffed Matron. “He ought to have informed us his daughter had a fiancé. Even if he objected to the match, her doctor should have been informed. Patient history is vital to treatment.”

“Yes, all right, but it appears we must get these young people married straightaway.”

Tanner stepped forward. “Sir, with your permission, I’ll take Miss Mayhew to Dorset and we will be married in her family’s parish.”

“No sir, no you will not. I’m afraid that will never do. Miss Mayhew leaves Gateshead your wife or she does not leave Gateshead at all. Mrs. Sutherland, notify the curate his services are required.”

Tanner felt Laura grip his arm. He quietly took her hand and crushed it in his to stifle her protest. “I am trying to think of something,” he muttered under his breath. “Do not panic. Now, Miss Mayhew, if you don’t mind, put these clothes on and quickly.”

He helped her into the grey bodice of the nursing uniform and while she fastened the hooks, he reached for the skirt. Laura stepped into it and Tanner hooked it at the back.

Laura restored the ribbon to her beautiful hair. “Why am I wearing this?”

“Because we’re caught now and there’s no way to put it back without arousing suspicion. Besides it is new and in better condition than the dress you were wearing. It looks well with your hair.”

“My appearance on my wedding day would only be a matter of concern,” she whispered nervously, “if I intended to marry at all.”

“Come. If you are ready, we must go.”

He disposed of her institutional dress in a gap in the hedge. Hand-in-hand, they followed the others out of the maze.

When they reached the entrance, Tanner turned on his heel and marched toward the gate. Laura hurried after him. “Where are you going?” she hissed.

“Slowly, Slowly,” he ordered in a low voice. “Take your time. They are still watching us. Nod your head in my direction as though I’ve said something. Good. That’s good. Wait until they go inside and then we’ll make a run for it. We are almost there. There is my horse.”

“Mr. Caine, this way if you please! Dr. Rutledge is waiting for you and the young lady in the chapel. Come now, children. I know you are frightened but you must be strong. You are making the right decision, I promise you.

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