“Here, you see? At the time this map was drawn, the water ran just outside the boundary of Forest Grange land, and then acted as the border between Myrtle Manor from Rosewood Park. I believe it served as a legitimate marker…and was used extensively by the public.”
“Yes, I see,” she nodded, wondering where all this was leading.
“But now,” continued Blackstone, “as I noted this morning on my ride, the river hasmoved, carving its way through Myrtle Manor property, right here, on the bend.”
His finger touched an area on the map that appeared to be a field next to the house, and Holly had to think for a moment or two before managing to impose the present-day landscape on the one from two centuries before.
“So what you’re saying is that the Ban is no longer a border? But actually part of the Myrtle Manor property now?”
“I believe so.”
Richard cleared his throat. “If that is indeed the case, then the river would be a private waterway, I believe, belonging to the Chalmers family.”
Holly glanced at him. “Oh, I’m sure it is still regarded as public, Richard. I doubt Harry even knows it’s moved over the years. I certainly hadn’t noticed, and I often see boaters on it in the summer. It is a very pretty sail up to the waterfall and back to Lesser Banhope.”
“I’m sure you’re correct, Miss Trease,” said Blackstone, his smile somewhat unsettling. “And it’s certainly nothing to cause anyone concern.”
He returned to the remaining few boughs. “Where would you like these?”
Holly dragged her thoughts away from maps and back to the task at hand, directing him to a couple of bare portraits near the door.
As he moved away, Richard leaned close to her ear. “We have to talk.”
She nodded, then walked to the table with the ribbons, just as Ferguson entered and held both doors wide for two maids and a footman.
“Tea, Miss Trease. His Lordship and her Ladyship will be joining you momentarily.”
Chapter Eight
In Which Tea is Served, and Difficult Decisions are Discussed at Length
Richard found himself somewhat bemused as the servants laid the tea table in rapid time and he ended up sitting with Lady Hazel on one side and her daughter on the other.
He was quite comfortable dealing with the aristocracy on a business level, but joining them for tea in an elegant library was a very different situation. He prayed he wouldn’t accidentally drop a buttered scone on Lady Hazel’s lap.
The aristocracy themselves, however, seemed quite content to share their tea with an ordinary man of business.
“Sir Duncan is resting,” announced Lord Trease, with a sigh, as introductions were concluded, and everyone took their seats. “Poor chap is really done in by this journey.”
“I’m not surprised,” replied his wife. “But to be honest, dear, I think it’s better that he be here, rather than at Rosewood. Our staff can look after him and make sure he has everything he needs to regain some strength.” She pursed her lips. “Not that his people there aren’t efficient, but it’s not his permanent residence. So I’m not convinced they offer the care and comfort that we can here at Forest Grange.”
“You are quite correct, my Lady,” Blackstone nodded. “I’m sure Sir Duncan’s sojourn here, under your excellent touch, will prove beneficial to his health.”
“Have you known him long, Mr Blackstone?” Holly’s question was posed in a casually interested manner.
“Not long at all, Miss Trease. We became acquainted through a mutual friend when Sir Duncan was in London.” He thought for a moment. “That must have been going on sixmonths or so ago.” He shook his head. “Goodness, how time flies.”
“But you’ve clearly kept in touch,” she continued, her gaze one of polite interest.
“We have, yes. A very perspicacious gentleman, if I may say so, with a shrewd mind for business.” He sipped tea. “ We have enjoyed a prolific correspondence, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I admire him immensely.”
“We find him most pleasant,” Lady Hazel affirmed. “Although I, for one, will confess myself quite surprised by his decision to travel at this time of year. He is usually to be found sequestered at Aylmer House with his daughter and son-in-law.”
Blackstone agreed. “And I believe he had planned to do so this year. After settling our business, he was to embark on the journey there. But his illness, and his need to speak with your Lordship…” he nodded at Lord Trease, “postponed his departure.”
“Well, one must hope that the weather clears enough for him to make his journey home,” said Lady Trease. “I’m sure his family eagerly awaits his arrival.”
“Yes, indeed,” said Blackstone. “I would venture to say that in a day or so, this matter will be settled, and we can all look forward to Christmas with our families.”
