"The blind leading the blind then, I'm afraid. Still, I would take your assistance in getting somewhere warm and dry. It feels like spring here, at least, but I don't think it's so warm yet that I can be walking about in wet clothing and not catch a chill," Elizabeth said.

He seemed a gallant sort, at least, and as reluctant as she was to accept help from someone she did not know it seemed this was her only option.