“I see. What if I worked with you? Could you tell me then?”
“You want to become a spy?”
"Not exactly a full-fledged spy, but perhaps I could help in a limited capacity. I'm sure I could pass along some useful information. Unfortunately, thetonhas a habit of bending my ear at every opportunity, and perhaps, in certain situations, that could be useful to you.”
Edgerton got up and refilled his glass. “Another?”
Richmond nodded.
“Are you acquainted with Lady Tisbury?” Edgerton asked after returning to his seat.
“I am indeed. The lady is a force to be reckoned with, and I admire her forthright manner. I detest those who play false.”
“Then you should know that she’s an integral part of my network.”
“She is? Now thatissurprising! What does she contribute?”
“Women talk, and Lady Tisbury always has her ears open. If you have information and cannot reach me directly, you can trust her to pass it along.”
Richmond smiled. “This just got a lot more interesting.”
“Does that mean you’re interested in having me talk to Director Jeffries about becoming an agent in my network?”
“Yes, but only in a limited capacity. I have two younger sisters I’m responsible for, and I won’t agree to anything that could put their lives in danger. However, I’d be happy to pass along information.”
"Good. I’ll inform the director of your willingness to help. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more letters to write."
“Of course,” Richmond said, rising from his seat and putting the glass on Edgerton’s desk. “I’ll see you at dinner.”
“Thankyou, Your Grace. The Crown appreciates your service.”
He nodded and headed for the door, then turned back. “And Edgerton? The reason I wanted to talk to you—”
“Yes?”
“I’m going to marry your sister Emma.”
Edgerton’s head snapped up. “What? She hasn’t even had her come out yet.”
"I'm aware of that. I've been quietly courting her, although I daresay she doesn't realize that's what I've been doing. I’d like to win her heart before asking for her hand.”
"I see. And does Emma share your feelings?"
“I believe she’s beginning to if her sweet blushes are any indication.”
“Careful, Richmond. That’s my sister you’re talking about.”
“Of course. I have not done and have no intention of ever doing anything untoward. I’m a gentleman. I merely wanted to let you know of my intentions.”
“Noted. And you’re free to court her if you wish, but I will not force Emma to marry anyone, not even you, Your Grace.”
“I understand,” Richmond said, acknowledging the brotherly concern in Edgerton’s tone. “I’m in no hurry with my courtship. If Emma desires a Season beforeaccepting my proposal, I’ll wait as long as it takes for her to be sure of her feelings.”
“Good. Then we understand each other,” Edgerton said.
***
That evening before dinner, while the family gathered in the parlor, Emma tried hard not to watch the duke. He seemed his usual polite self, and she had no idea what had transpired between him and Mr. Bishop after she’d left the garden at the dower house. Even though there had been no kiss with Mr. Bishop, in the eyes of Society, she’d been compromised since her near indiscretion was witnessed. She’d waited with a heavy heart all afternoon for Bishop to talk to her brother, but Edgerton hadn’t approached her yet. Perhaps he didn’t know what had happened, and maybe it wasn’t as bad as she feared.
