Chapter Thirty-One

London

Eight men sat in the dining room of Geoffrey’s townhouse to discuss the various rescue options with him. Lord Cedric brought the fortress drawings and placed the schematics on the table. “We will have a model by tomorrow morning. It will arrive from the Royal Naval Academy.”

He pointed to the map. “Portsea Island is southwest of London. LeBran’s fortress is just past Southsea Castle.”

Lord Kevin shot Lord Geoffrey a broad smile. “We can start from your estate at Brighton, charter a schooner with seamen from the Queen’s Harbor Master, and sail through the channel on to Portsmouth.”

Cedric paced back and forth with large strides and returned to the map. “A ship will not attract attention because the HMS Naval Base is situated nearby and they train on all vessel types. At dark, with the tides in our favor, we should be able to enter the fortress from the seaward side.”

Lord Kevin selected another drawing, placed his finger on the fortress. “This is the critical part. There is an old entrance to the caponnier, which is underground, but we would have to move fast and fight our way up to your lady’s rooms on the third floor. It will be necessary to know how many guards they have and where they are situated.”

“I should have all the details mid-afternoon when the groomsman returns with information Serena can provide,” Geoffrey said.

“It would be much better if somehow Lady Serena and the maid could sneak down the stairs and meet us at the old entrance. Two of our men could convey the ladies to the schooner and our fight will be on the beach, with a better chance at success.” Lord Kevin rested his case.

Lord Watson spoke. “I investigated the land route, and I feel, due to the distance and the bare land in the front, the carriages and horses would attract attention. So I do not recommend it. It seems the sea approach is best.”

The talks went into the wee hours. The men removed their jackets for comfort and each Saint listened with strict attention. Back and forth, they discussed all aspects as well as significant risks.

“LeBran is not a stupid man. If he places guards on the beach, we will have to fight our way through them. It will be necessary to prepare for all eventualities.”

When it appeared there could be nothing more to plan, Lord Geoffrey nodded agreement.

“Good, we have three days. If there is no further discussion, we will opt for the sea route and will act this coming Friday.”

“After we have rested here,” Lord Carleton added, “we should depart for Brighton and review our assignments. Lord Kevin, you are the munitions man. How long will it take you to procure all we need?”

“As I have mentioned, I am under the assumption we have our personal swords and pistols. Axes and maces will have to be purchased. The gunpowder was an issue, but I found a way to work around the needed signatures for the requisitions. Look for me to arrive late night tomorrow at Brighton House. The Prince Regent is not at his Royal Pavilion’s residence, so the area will be somewhat deserted. We will not be distracted, or for that matter, noticed.”

“I will send my majordomo on to Brighton as soon as the fortress model is delivered,” Lord Geoffrey stated. He and the staff will prepare for our arrival.”

“Cedric, you will have to arrange to charter the schooner. Neville will provide you with funds.” He stood up behind the table. “I will wait for John, the groomsman, and as soon as I get the latest information about whether the ladies can make their way to the bowels of the keep, I will leave to join you at Brighton House.”

Lord Geoffrey was determined, but his heart palpitated at the formidable task ahead. A thousand things could go wrong.