Dangerous Engagement
The Earl of Templecombe had dared to kiss Miranda Melbury at their first meeting. Perhaps he had been provoked - she had been wearing boy's clothing, had spoken to him with most unladylike acerbity and had required rescuing when her horse bolted. But surely a man so ready to take advantage of a lady in distress deserved the slap she gave him.
Now, it was rumoured that the Earl, somewhat the worse for gambling losses, was looking for a new source of funds. Was he planning to offer for Miranda because she had become an heiress - or did he plan to finance his future by other, more criminal means?