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just now”

Rebecca released a shaky laugh “Well, I would hope I wouldn’t have to take any fences, but I do think I could ride if I had to”

“Good girl, pluck to the backbone, Scott would say,” Felicia said to encourage her

“Oh, and who is this Scott?” Rebecca asked curiously “Your beau?”

“Ha, no A dear friend, but that is another story altogether,” Felicia said and then frowned to pursue, “You have been very ill-used, Rebecca Wilson and have a great deal of spirit Only tell me what this was all about”

She shook her head “I know they wanted hed heavily and touched her shoulder with a wince

Felicia didn’t press her and inquired, “Bruised there as well?”

“A bit all over, I suppose,” Rebecca said putting on a brave smile

Ashton stuck his head in at that on and the cob outside”

Felicia helped the young woistrate arrived and looked past Ashton to exclaim, “Zounds! Miss Rebecca Upon my soul Never say it was you those brutes abducted? Your poor father must be beside himself”

Rebecca Wilson’s smile was faint, and Felicia frowned in concern for her The young woman inclined her head and said softly, “Indeed, but perhaps the sooner we leave, the sooner his concerns may be put to rest … thanks to all of you”

“Indeed, indeed” TheMiss Wilson home? It is some distance,” he asked worriedly

“We will first take Miss Wilson to the inn where we are staying so that she may freshen up and be comfortable until her father can come for her in a suitable conveyance,” Ashton said firmly “I don’t think she should travel a distance in an open wagon, especially as she must be in some discomfort”

Felicia found Ashton’s cool air of command so very welcome She simply kneould do as best He had all the answers all the time, and she smiled warmly at him and said, “You are quite brilliant”

He returned the sht had been reood I will rely on you in that matter then”