Sir William and Lady Abbington-Thorpe lived in Kensington, the letters A and T mounted on gates at the entrance to the circular driveway.
“Abbington-Thorpe,” Brodie commented. “One would think that one name would be sufficient.
“Usually to make notice of the alliance of two families through marriage,” I explained.
“Her ladyship,” he added. “Lady Antonia Montgomery-Fraser and yerself as well, Lady Mikaela… Montgomery-Forsythe.”
Of course, my aunt had long ago dropped that affectation. I had as well. However, he had me there for just a moment as he hesitated at my name, and for just that moment I wondered what he would say in consideration of that question that loomed between us.
“Another coach,” I hastily announced as our driver pulled the team in behind another one.
“Sir William’s representative did say that he would attend as well,” Brodie explained as we stepped down and made our way to the front entrance where we were promptly greeted by the head butler.
We were shown into the library and introductions were made with Stephen Thorpe, Sir William’s legal representative and brother.
“Sir Avery Stanton has recommended you most highly,” he commented to Brodie.
“And you as well, Miss Forsythe,” he added with obvious curiosity.
“Miss Forsythe is an associate,” Brodie explained. “There are often aspects of an inquiry case that require a more refined perspective.”
“Yes, of course. I quite understand. Sir William will be joining us momentarily. As you must understand this is a very difficult time. I have spoken extensively with Sir Avery and I’m here merely to give support in the matter.”
It was then that Sir William arrived. He was quite stout, short of stature with gray streaked hair and an equally gray face which under the circumstances was to be expected.
“Lady Abbington-Thorpe is indisposed, as I am certain you will understand,” Sir William explained.
The questions Brodie asked were much the same as those asked of Amelia Mainwaring’s parents:
When had they last seen her? Was there anything different in her demeanor, or something that was bothering her? Was there any communication received with that photograph? Or afterward?
Brodie then asked if there had been any disagreements with Sir William’s acquaintances or associates.
“Are you suggesting that it might be someone I know? Retaliation against me for some reason?”
“It is necessary to look at all possibilities,” Brodie explained.
“Preposterous!” Sir William explained. Then, “No, of course not!”
To his credit and as I had seen in the past, Brodie remained calm. There was nothing in his manner that suggested otherwise.
“It is imperative William that we all remain as calm as possible in order to find out who is responsible,” Stephen Thorpe told his brother.
“What about Lady Abbington-Thorpe?” Brodie then continued. “Would there be anyone she might have encountered, someone who might have a complaint against her family?”
It was obvious that Sir William struggled to maintain his composure. But rather than anger he simply shook his head and replied in a quiet voice, “Not that we’re aware of. Her family as well as mine is well respected.”
“What about a romantic connection?” Brodie then asked.
“That is most personal. I hardly think that is appropriate…” Sir William started to reply.
I thought of Amelia Mainwaring and the reason she had left her family residence with the excuse of visiting a friend, that had ended quite badly.
Young ladies had been known to object to suitors chosen for them by their families, as I knew only too well. An alliance of names as well as fortunes?
“We realize this is very difficult,” I added. “However there may be situations that are perhaps thought to be most agreeable but somehow prove difficult or against one’s wishes,” I suggested. “A broken engagement, or some slight to a young man or his family.”
Sir William shook his head, a calm manner somewhat returned. “Catherine was not betrothed as yet. There had been discussion with another family and she seemed most amenable. I can think of nothing that would cause someone to do this dreadful thing.”
