“Thank you, Remington.” Julia’s voice choked up with the love she felt for her cousin and her husband at that moment. She couldn’t believe they would be so generous after everything that had happened.
“Of course.” Remington turned to Henry and crossed his large arms over his chest. “What happened with White and Stanford?”
“White’s possessions have been seized by the crown. Apparently, Mr. White and Mr. Stanford made up the entire scheme.” Henry gripped the top of his short hair.
“I’m sorry to ask more of you, Karrington—” Henry began but was cut off by Remington.
“Nonsense. We would be happy to assist. We’re family after all, aren’t we, Your Grace?” He turned to Livie, who readily agreed.
“Yes, of course, they can stay here as long as they need.” She gave Lady Heartford a kind smile.
In Julia’s opinion, it was more than the woman deserved, but she would be her mother-in-law, and family looked after each other.
“All those people trusted them with their savings!” Lord Hempstead exclaimed.
“Where did the two hundred people who boarded the ship last year go?” Mother Di asked.
Julia was silent during the entire exchange, her mind trying to absorb the information. She knew of the settlers, even wished she could’ve joined them to get away from the gossip last year.
“According to Henry’s solicitor, when theHonduras Packetreached the site that was Pomais, there was nothing but jungle. It seemed that most of the occupants of the ship perished,” Mr. Edwards spoke from the door.
Loud gasps sounded around the room. Julia looked from Mr. Edwards to Henry, not believing that so many people had trusted that vile man.
“Dear God!” Mr. Prescott shook his head. “This could ruin so many lives. I believe Stanford took out a loan for over three hundred thousand pounds with Jenkins & Company.”
Lord Hempstead stood abruptly. “I must go speak with my solicitor.”
“I think you’re right,” Mr. Prescott agreed.
“I’ve never been so thankful for not having enough funds to invest in something,” St. Clara jested.
Pippa let out a little squeak, holding back her laughter, but the rest of the occupants in the room stared at him as if he had two heads.
“I will stay and assist Livie. She has so much to do for the ball, and now, two new guests need her attention.” Mother Di’s eyes were full of disdain and distrust as she stared at Lady Heartford.
Julia stood beside Henry, frozen in place as everyone bustled around her.
Aunt Len returned with the housekeeper who escorted both Lady Heartford and Mr. Livingstone to their rooms. The mothers went to assist with the preparations for the ball. Lord Hempstead and Mr. Prescott left to find out more about their investments. The remaining guests were quiet for a moment.
“What are you doing here?” Henry asked St. Clara as the parlor cleared of guests.
“I’m here to see my friend. Are we forbidden from speaking to each other now that you’re engaged?” St. Clara challenged.
“No. I promised Lady Julia that I would try to be friendly to you.” Henry shrugged his shoulder and walked with Julia to the sofa.
“As did I.” St. Clara folded his arms.
“I’m sure two grown men can figure out how to get along.” Elijah leaned against the wall, staring at the two other men.
“I like you, Mr. Edwards,” St. Clara said.
Pippa stood and fanned out her skirts in a rush to leave. “Julia, I will see you at the ball. I don’t want to impose.”
Julia let go of Henry’s hand and rushed to her friend, worried about why she wished to leave when she had just arrived. “You could never be a bother. I will walk you out.”
St. Clara rose and straightened his tailcoat. “Surely, you are not going home alone. I will escort you—”
“No.” Pippa’s voice was firm. “I can see myself home.”
