“A matter of a robbery after leaving his club late of the night almost six weeks ago,” Brodie commented.
“So, it would seem, according to the newspapers and what the Metropolitan Police have determined,” His Royal Highness added.
“However…” He reached inside his jacket and retrieved what appeared to be a badly stained envelope. He crossed the suite and handed it to Brodie.
“This was found by Lord Salisbery’s footman in the young man’s hand when the coach arrived at their residence and his body was discovered.”
Brodie unfolded the stationary, read the contents, then handed it to me.
“The sins of the father will be visited upon the children…?”A biblical saying, if I was correct, and quite cryptic.
“Have the police seen this?” Brodie inquired.
There was a pause. “Lord Salisbery has not shown it to anyone else as yet.”
“It could be helpful in finding the murderer…” Brodie pointed out.
“That is the reason your assistance is being requested,” HRH replied. “It is well known that in your own search for Lady Forsythe’s sister, your services were acquired to great success. And you are sensitive to the need to avoid the sensationalism that usually accompanies such a situation.”
I was well aware of that and there was no need for his reminder of it. And it was no secret that the dailies feasted on any information, real or otherwise, about those in certain circles.
That had not been my concern when my sister disappeared. The concern had been the delays and lack of attention it was given by Chief Inspector Abberline, who had referred to her disappearance more than once as a lady of means who had simply taken herself off, even with the “unfortunate circumstances” of her maid’s death.
I caught the subtle change of Brodie’s expression. He was not one to turn away someone in a dire situation, still I had learned to read his expressions. He was not pleased to be called into a situation where a valuable piece of information had been withheld from the investigation.
“With all due respect, sir, this might be a situation better suited to the Agency,” he diplomatically replied.
However, I caught the look of consternation in the expression on HRH’s face.
“I appreciate your candor, Mr. Brodie. However, I am personally requesting your expertise in the matter. I want you and Lady Forsythe to investigate this situation and determine who is behind it.”
Most interesting, I thought, and a polite way of issuing what seemed to be a royal decree.
“I appreciate your confidence, sir,” Brodie replied.
“You hesitate?”
“Such matters are often withheld for reasons that would make it impossible to provide assistance.”
A thoughtful and accurate response for something we had encountered in the past.
Those of the upper classes prioritized their good names and titles at all costs. There were a few like my great aunt who didn’t give a fig about such posturing and overblown ideas or self-importance.
Yet, by and large, it was true of mainstream society, and most particularly the royal family. They had the reputation of “closing ranks” as it were in order to protect one of their own, no matter the situation, whether it was the latest mischief or scandal that might reflect badly.
Case in point, Prince Albert’s many affairs, a mistress or two, and other transgressions that no one knew about because of aforementioned habit of protecting their own at all costs. It did make the prospect of investigating the matter of young Lord Salisbery’s death very near impossible.
“Very well.” His Highness abruptly turned to me.
“You will excuse us, Lady Forsythe.”
It was not a request.
“Ye are aware of her efforts on yer behalf in the past,” Brodie reminded him before I could respond. “Anything ye discuss with me, ye may discuss with the both of us.”
It was obviously not what Prince Albert expected given the surprised expression on his face.
“I am well aware, Mr. Brodie, and I meant no offense.”
