When I accepted your commission, I was moved to think it might redeem me in the eyes of Miss Bishop--for whose sake, as you may have guessed, I took it.

But I have discovered that such a thing is beyond accomplishment.

I should have known it for a sick man's dream.

I have discovered also that if she's choosing you, as I believe she is, she's choosing wisely between us, and that's why I'll not have your life risked by keeping you aboard whilst the message goes by another who might bungle it.

And now perhaps ye'll understand." Lord Julian stared at him bewildered.