Delighted that her ideas were running in the same direction as his, he wanted to smother her in kisses and take her to bed, but they had company. ‘My thoughts exactly. We should go ahead with the auction and see who comes to bid.’
‘But you can’t sell this report if there’s a chance it might fall into the wrong hands!’ protested Miss Austen.
Dora grinned. ‘Oh, Jacob, I can tell from your expression that that is exactly what you hope will happen.’
‘You know me so well, love. Michel Percy will find it irresistible.’
‘What are you two cooking up?’ asked Miss Austen suspiciously.
‘We need a few unusual ingredients in our dish to tempt our foreign guests to attend. Dora can supply one of them.’
‘What spice would that be?’ asked the novelist.
‘Let’s just say I have an accomplishment that might come in very useful,’ said Dora.
‘Why do I think you aren’t talking about painting tables, covering screens or netting purses?’
‘Because you, dear Jane, are a lady of great discernment.’
‘Do you think your brother will agree to host this auction?’ he asked the lady novelist, changing the subject away from Dora’s unusual skill.
‘I believe so, if it does not put Eliza or anyone in the household at risk,’ said Miss Austen.
‘I see it rather as a way of ensuring publicity so that no one comes looking for the report again– no more break-ins, no more attacks on us as we go about our business. You can publish your next novel in peace. Dora, what is your opinion?’
‘I think it is a brilliant idea if we can pull it off. And if Jane were not here, I would kiss you.’ Dora beamed at him.
‘Don’t mind me,’ said Miss Austen.
Jacob grinned at her. ‘Would you mind going together to Sloane Street to pave the way for the event? Invitations must be written and other preparations made. You know what you must do?’ he asked Dora.
‘Yes, Jacob. I’m glad my skills are finally being exercised.’
‘Where do you want us to conceal the report?’ asked Miss Austen.
‘I’m planning to call again on Julien and ask to borrow the transparency. He might wish to be present.’
‘I was under the impression he wanted rid of the whole sorry business,’ said Dora. ‘He handed the report to us like a hot potato.’
‘But he would likely want to witness the person behind his parents’ death being brought to account.’
‘Count Vorontsov is unlikely to be able to attend,’ said Dora.
‘I will call on him after I’ve spoken to Julien. As you said, it would not be so odd for me to visit the Russian embassy after being the first person to treat his injuries. It is time we had a frank talk.’
‘Then we will bid them all to attend Eliza’s musical party tomorrow night,’ said Miss Austen. She gave Dora a teasing smile. ‘I wonder if Mr Pierce would like to organise it?’
‘I think he would like nothing more to do with us. Do not worry, I know where we can get performers at short notice.’
‘Oh? Where?’
Dora chuckled. ‘Jane, for a lady with keen powers of observation, have you not noticed we employ them, and I have made my living on stage? I even have one of my singing partners here in London. I’m sure she will be thrilled to do something other than shopping for an evening.’
She was talking about Ruby. ‘Do you think that wise?’ asked Jacob.
Dora tapped his cheek softly. ‘Wake up, Jacob! You are holding a party for killers. You need tough, experienced performers we can trust. I think Ruby is the perfect choice.’
He trapped her hand and kissed her fingers. ‘I will be guided by you.’ He just had to hope she was right about Ruby’s trustworthiness.
