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wondered if that was true for Julia and Mariah. But it wasn’t the sort of question one could ask. “I would be honored to help, but I wouldn’t know where to start.”
    â€œThe initial organization and management will be done by a woman who has set up sanctuaries in Leicester and Norfolk,” Mariah said. “She’s a Methodist and works with local Methodist congregations to locate a suitable building and develop the program and facilities. But we’ve found it useful to have a local woman of rank become the public face for our work. As a baroness and a woman who is already involved with the Sisters Foundation, you would be perfect.”
    â€œI’m not sure my reputation will help you,” Jessie said uncertainly. “In some circles I’m considered a loose woman and a fortune hunter.”
    â€œYet those who know you in Kent think of you as a devoted wife and mother who is loved and respected,” Julia said quietly. “Any difficulties you had when you were younger have enhanced your compassion and understanding. Well-born women who have known only wealth and safety have trouble fully understanding what our clients have endured. We’ve made inquiries, and believe that you are uniquely qualified to represent the foundation in your area.”
    Jessie swallowed hard, fighting back an impulse to cry. “Thank you,” she said, trying to keep her voice steady. “I seldom meet people who are inclined to believe the best about me rather than the worst. If you truly think I can do the job, I will accept your offer gladly.”
    Mariah raised her cup. “To our next Zion House sanctuary and its distinguished patroness!”
    Smiling, Jessie toasted in tea, hoping that she could help other women as she’d been helped. “Now that we’ve established that, I would like to ask your aid in turn, though it’s a less honorable matter. I shall understand if you prefer not to become involved.” She swallowed hard. “After I ask, I’ll also understand if you may wish to withdraw your request that I become a patroness.”
    â€œAsk away,” Mariah said, her eyes shining. “You’ve aroused my curiosity!”
    â€œI need to find a husband as quickly as possible,” Jessie said bluntly. “A man who is kind, honorable, and powerful in his connections. And since I’m in mourning, I need to do it in a way that won’t arouse a public scandal, since that will drive away the kind of man I want and reflect badly on my daughter.”
    â€œYou don’t appear to be the sort of woman who absolutely must have a man at all times,” Julia said thoughtfully. “So you must have other reasons.”
    â€œTo protect my child.” Jessie explained succinctly, doing her best not to paint Frederick as a dangerous beast while making her fears believable.
    When she was finished, Julia said, “So you need to meet the right kind of man under circumstances of utmost respectability. That can be arranged, I believe. Given your beauty, attracting men won’t be a problem.”
    â€œAttracting males has never been a problem,” Jessie said dryly. “It’s attracting decent men with honorable intentions that is difficult.”
    Mariah gave an understanding nod. “We’ll help sort out the undesirables. What are your other requirements for a potential husband? Young, handsome, titled?”
    Jessie shook her head. “A title would be useful if it helps persuade Frederick not to try to wrest Beth away from me, but otherwise, I don’t care. I want an older man, not a young one. Someone like Philip, who was kind and honorable. I need a husband who will cherish Beth as if she were his own child.”
    â€œOld, unhandsome, and delighted to acquire a beautiful, faithful young wife and adorable daughter,” Mariah summed up. “I’ll start thinking who might do.”
    â€œYou’re