March 1905 RMS Idyllic At Sea On his way back to the stateroom, Lyons is unexpectedly intercepted by the skipper and Commander Erskine. Apparently there had been a robbery. None of the passengers had been made aware and few of the crew. Sir John learns the details of the chloroforming with every assurance that his young bride, Katherine, is fine, aside from having been unburdened of her diamond and emerald accoutrements. "There is no excuse for it, Mr Lyons. My duty as a man, given the fragile responsibility of your wife, was sabotaged by foul play, and I have failed you in that regard." "Not at all, Skipper. You saw to her as best you could, and for that you are every bit the able gentleman. Was anything else taken?" Captain Durham pauses a moment but feels compelled to confide in the gallant diplomat. "Yes, as it happens. The passkey to the ship has been stolen as well. It fits the doors to all cabins, cupboards, boiler rooms, the lot. I know of your history of service to England, Lyons. You do - if I may borrow from the Bard - 'in the figure of a lamb, the feats of a lion.' I share this news with you because I recognise your skills and know that if anyone can discover this depraved miscreant, you can." Lyons accepts Durham's praises with genteel grace and agrees to make the discovery of the villain a priority. Shaken by the prospect that the Tears of Isis are in another's hands, Lyons hastily makes his way to the stateroom. There have been very few times - five, in fact - in which Sir John Lyons has been genuinely astonished. The sixth time comes when the door to the stateroom opens to reveal Rina, in only a simple, gossamer dressing gown, reclining on the divan with a very conspicuous looking key hanging from her big toe. At the other end, Rina beams the most adorable smile of guileful accomplishment, complete with raised eyebrows and dimple. The spy is both speechless and breathless at this charming sight, and his heart skips a beat. The lustful romp around the parlour suite when they first arrived was merely for exercise, like a rugby or polo match. At that time, Lyons knew only of what he'd read of this young aristocrat. But over the course of dinner, and the adventure that ensued, he has come to discover that Rina is a resourceful, devious, elegant and brilliant individual; equal parts countess, actress and thief. Such a woman is not ten-a-penny. Their lovemaking is very different this time. The intimate affection that Jack now demonstrates is motivated by congratulations and deep respect. Clutching the key in his teeth, he pulls it free from Rina's toe and drops it gently into the soft valley of her belly. Then with great care he carefully kisses each of her perfect, conniving toes. "You are a marvel, my dear," Jack murmurs softly in her ear. "Mmmm, I know," Rina answers dulcetly before accepting his lips with her own.