“Absolutely,” he replied.
For a moment, Charles wondered why he’d even come along. It seemed like Arthur had everything under control, and he was merely an afterthought. True, he hadn’t been exposed to business much, but this had the markings of impatience.
He and Arthur left almost as quickly as they had arrived for their appointment. As they began their departure, his brother stepped back to have a quick word. Charles continued to the door leading to the outside. Stepping out into the fresh air made him realize how confining some circumstances could be. That was why he walked as much as he did.
“That was easier than I anticipated,” Arthur said from behind him.
Charles pivoted on his heel to face his brother. “I was surprised we didn’t actually have more of a conversation than we did. But I understand we were added in at the last minute, but I would have liked to have asked some questions I’ve been pondering.”
“I can see if we can see him again before we return to Kent.”
“No, it’s nothing important.”
“Come. Let’s go to my club and have lunch.”
Charles shook his head. “I’d rather go and get fish and chips. It’s been ages since I had that.”
Arthur stared at him for a second. “You fancy fish and chips over a steak?”
“Today I do.”
“Fish and chips it is,” Arthur replied. “Next time, it’s my choice.”
“Very well. Now, do you know of a good chip shop?”
“As a matter of fact, I do. It’s within walking distance from here. If we leave now, we’ll arrive before the crowds.”
“That’s a sign of a good place to eat.”
What’s that?” Arthur asked.
“The crowds.”
They continued to walk through the crowds of hustling and bustling masses of humankind. Arthur led them to a street just off the main one they’d been on. It appeared there were small stalls offering things like pasties. The place Arthur had in mind was at a corner with tables outside for customers to enjoy their meal. Though it was still early, a crowd was beginning to form. Luckily, they were able to get a good spot and placed their order quickly.
Two mugs of ale and two orders wrapped in newspapers came, and once again Arthur led the way. This time to a table outside.
“This okay with you?”
Charles nodded and pulled out a chair. “It will do just fine.”
“Good,” Arthur replied.
“How did you find out about this place?”
“It’s quite popular with local businessmen. MPs even come here to eat.”
“Have they been here long?”
Arthur handed him a wrapped newspaper as he contemplated his answer. “As long as I can remember. Papa would bring me here when I accompanied him to Parliament.” He shut his eyes for a brief moment as though it occurred to him that mentioning their father and what they did together hurt Charles’s feelings. He might not show it, but his brother did have feelings.
Charles bit down on the hot, crispy fish. He grabbed his ale to wash down the fish and the chips. “This is some of the best.”
“Told you so,” Arthur replied with a grin. “Anything you’d like to do this afternoon?”
Shaking his head, Charles looked about at all the people surrounding them. “I’m not sure.”
“I need to go to my tailor to pick up some shirts I ordered.”
