Dear Reader:

I am afraid I am about to do something exceedingly shocking. My adventure began when I came to the Earl of Savile's castle for the reading of George Devane's will, of which the earl is the executor.

I had every intention of refusing George's blood money, but he foiled me by leaving it to my young son, Nicky. Because I am a young widow, this bequest has subjected me to a great deal of unpleasant gossip.

Now I find that I am in the power of the most exciting man I have ever met, a man whose very presence makes me weak, a man who could very well be my ruination.

Remember me in your prayers, as I shall need them.

(Mrs.) Gail Saunders