“Why? Was he unwell?”
“Oh no, I don’t imagine that was the case. It was just quite unlike the practical and controlled Sir Peregrine we all know and respect. The man whose intellect deserves our fullest appreciation and whose attention to details and routines make this such a perfect residence.”
“Oh.ThatSir Peregrine,” nodded Grace, enjoying herself enormously. “So he left in an unusual state of…how would you describe it, Morris?”
“One might use the word vivaciousness, perhaps…although I am uncertain as to the propriety of assigning such a description to a gentleman of Sir Peregrine’s standing.”
Grace swallowed. “Right then. So Sir Peregrine left, in a cheerful state of mind…can you tell me his destination? It is most important that I reach him.”
“Sadly no, Madam. He didn’t say.”
“What?”
“Sir Peregrine did not see fit to convey his destination to me, prior to his departure. He merely mumbled something about Christmas as he finished his last scone.”
“Hmm.” Grace frowned. “So you havenoidea where he was going?”
“I believe I just said that, Madam.” Morris gave her a rather dry glance.
“So you did,” said Grace, half-amused and half-irritated. “That is most disappointing Morris.” She thought for a moment or two. “If he returns, would you please tell him I called and would appreciate the chance to speak with him at his earliest opportunity.”
“Of course, Madam.” He bowed. “Is there anything else I can do for you?”
She shook her head. “No, Morris. Thank you anyway.” She turned away, then glanced over her shoulder. “Do have a happy Christmas.”
“Thank you, Madam. And the same to you.”
The door closed behind her as she walked back to the street, frustrated, a little worried and wondering what her next step should be. She gritted her teeth. She would find the damned man, and when she did, she’d give him a large piece of her mind.
She stared at Snowball, her thoughts revolving around her frustration. Finally, she sighed. “Ohbollocks.”
Two gasps echoed near her.
“You said a bad word, Ma’am,” said the little girl. “My Daddy would smack me if I said that.”
“He did let me have it once when I said it,” added her brother. “I had a bruise.”
Grace recalled herself to the present. “And he would be quite right to do so. I should not have used that term, and I do apologise.”
“We’ll forget it for another sixpence,” the lad offered with a sly smile.
“You’ll both get your sixpences,” Grace reached into her reticule and retrieved the promised recompense. “But I refuse to set your feet on the path to wickedness by permitting you to blackmail me.”
The children took the coins, even though the boy sighed.
“Nice try, my friend.” She laid a hand on his shoulder. “You’ll make a wonderful businessman when you grow up.”
“Thank you, lady.” They walked off down the street.
“Oh, happy Christmas,” called Grace after them.
They waved their response, leaving her on Perry’s doorstep with her horse. And no Perry.
