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“No one will be the wiser,” I murmur, tightening the last tie. “Not a soul will see what you let me do to you.”

It’s the least I can do after leaving her wrecked in the dark—wearing the evidence of my complete undoing in places only I get to know about.

She catches at my coat as I pull back, holding on a moment longer than she should. Her fingers are too tight. Not hungry. Not playful. Needing. I still her gently, covering her hand with mine until the tension eases.

“Oíche mhaith, a áille,” I murmur.

She looks up at me, breath still uneven. “What does that mean?”

I give her a smile bright enough to pass for ease. “Good night, beautiful.” I press one last kiss to her cheek. Unmistakably final. Then I step away.

She nods, lips parting as if to say something, then she swallows it down. Whatever crosses her face, I choose to take as satisfaction. As understanding. As sense.

I tell myself that’s why it feels right enough to leave, and I don’t look back when I do.

PART III

FROM THE LONDON PAPERS

Extraordinary Intelligence From Ireland

Dublin—Thursday, May the Twenty-Fourth, 1798

We have the satisfaction to announce that the disturbances which broke out on the night of the three-and-twentieth were promptly suppressed; and that His Majesty’s troops, acting with their usual spirit and steadiness, have restored tranquillity with little loss to themselves.

Accounts from several counties in Ireland confirm that a dangerous and premeditated rising hath taken place among the lower orders, principally in the counties of Kildare and Wicklow, instigated by persons long known for their seditious principles.

Bodies of men, armed with pikes and other rude weapons, have assembled in open defiance of the laws, attacking the houses of loyal subjects, and endeavouring to obstruct the movements of the King’s forces.

The misguided insurgents having been defeated and put to flight, we rejoice to add that order is re-established; and the loyal inhabitants may rest assured the Government is fully equal to the suppression of these criminal attempts. The Government has adopted the most prompt measures for the suppression of this disorder; and there is no doubt that the delusion under which these misguided persons labour will shortly be removed.

ALARMING STATE OF THE COUNTY OF WEXFORD

County Wexford, Ireland—Thursday, June the First, 1798

Later advices represent that the Insurrection hath assumed a more formidable aspect in the

County of Wexford, where the Rebels, emboldened by early success, have assembled in great

numbers.

The Town of Enniscorthy is reported to have fallen into their hands, and it is feared

that other places may be exposed to similar violence. Many loyal inhabitants have fled, and

several persons are said to be detained as prisoners.

The conduct of the Insurgents continues to mark the true spirit of anarchy, being

directed not merely against the Government, but against property and order in general.

DISTRESSING PARTICULARS FROM NEW ROSS

County Wexford, Ireland—Tuesday, June the Sixth, 1798

A severe and obstinate conflict has taken place at New Ross and Scullabogue, where the

Rebels made a determined attempt to possess themselves of those important posts.