He wasn’t surprised. His attackers had all the hallmarks of London brutes; they were silent and swift, doing the job without fuss, and getting on their way immediately.
And the “B” confirmed it. Samuel Blackstone’s boys. That initial had become a recognised signature, applied to more than a few unpleasant crimes. Which raised yet another question to add to the many Richard had silently posed to himself when he’d been assigned this task.
What possible interest could a financier with an extremely dubious reputation have in the documents he’d been carrying? They simply confirmed the legal ownership and property boundaries of some acreage in the vicinity, known asMyrtle Manor…
Chapter Two
In Which a Mystery Begins to Unfold, and Guests Arrive at Forest Grange
Holly was happy to see she’d arrived before the anticipated visitors, and managed to reach her room, tidy herself, and return downstairs without comment. She had hung her cloak at the very back of the hall cupboard, so the dampness around the hem wouldn’t be noticed.
“Here you are, darling. Excellent timing.” Her mother smiled at her from her seat at the table.
“I understand we have visitors this morning? I don’t think you mentioned that, Mama…” she helped herself to tea and a bun, enjoying the warmth of the room.
“I didn’t know, myself,” replied Lady Hazel. “It wasn’t until quite early that the messenger arrived with the news. Your papa wasn’t expecting anyone, but apparently Sir Duncan Aylmer is at Rosewood Park, and wishes to spend an hour or so with him.”
Holly frowned. “We know him, don’t we? I’ve certainly heard his name…”
“Yes, but I wouldn’t say we’re well acquainted,” answered her mother. “Your father seemed rather surprised to learn of Sir Duncan’s imminent arrival.”
“Wait,” Holly sought for a memory. “Of course. HeownsRosewood Park. Cherry used to go on about visiting to see the roses.”
“That’s right,” Lady Hazel nodded. “We did, once or twice, but it was quite a while ago. Sir Duncan is a retired Justice of the Peace, and it used to be his seat. I completely forgot about that. He’s not at Rosewood much anymore, I don’t think. He has a smaller property several miles to the north.” She staredthoughtfully at her teacup. “I know your Papa established the northernmost borders between our lands with him many years ago. To everyone’s satisfaction, I think.”
“Wait, I thought Myrtle Manor lay to our north?”
“Yes,” nodded her mother, “yes, it does, but it sort of fits in around us and Rosewood Park, for a short distance.” She picked up her tea. “The Rosewood Park estate is huge, Holly. And I’m not sure how much time Sir Duncan actually spends there, or if he just visits occasionally. He might use it for formal occasions, I suppose. The land is well-maintained, but honestly, we’ve never had much—if anything—to do with it at all.”
Knowing the size of Forest Grange, or at least having a rough idea, Holly nodded. “I can understand why.”
“Your Papa will know better than I,” said Lady Hazel. “My task this morning, in which I hope to be assisted by my beautiful daughter…” she shot a smile at Holly, “will be to make our guest welcome, give him tea if he needs it, and then leave him to talk to your father.”
“Who will be ruthlessly questioned after Sir Duncan leaves.”
“Of course.” The woman smiled calmly. “As you like to say, darling, having the right information is as good as having a shilling in your pocket.”
Ferguson entered at that point, engaging Lady Hazel in conversation, and giving Holly a chance to gather her thoughts while devouring her breakfast bun.
First and foremost, she had to put together some supplies for Mr Hawkesbury, and take them to the Nook. Not a formidable task, since she’d often decided to spend the day there, and taking food would be no cause for anyone’s concern.
Firewood was stacked already, so all she needed was bit of dry kindling. Perhaps a blanket would be a good idea, as the onesin the chest at the Nook might well be home to mice by now, even though they were surrounded by solid cedar.
Her mind made an organised list, and she finished her breakfast just as Ferguson departed.
“Apparently, they are nearing the drive, Holly. Would you come with me into the hall to welcome them? It would be good manners. You need not stay, of course.”
Holly sighed with relief. “Thank you, Mama. Yes, I’ll come. But then I’m thinking of spending the day in the Nook. It’s quiet, I can get a fire going, and it will give me chance to peruse a book I’ve been longing to begin.”
“Something academic, I’m sure…” grinned Lady Hazel. “How your brain holds so much information surprises me sometimes.”
Holly chuckled. “You know me well, Mama. I believe in learning. And I apologise that it isn’t embroidery or music.”
“Don’t, dear, there’s no need. Your Papa and I are very proud that our family can explore what appeals most to them. That’s how lives become happy and fulfilled. Look at your sister. She spent so much time on her horticultural studies that she found the man of her dreams in the very woods she loved.”
“Well, Mama, Cherry stumbling across her future husband while he slept in our forest doesn’t really prove your argument, since he didn’t grow there. But that’s beside the point. And I’m grateful, anyway.” She dropped a kiss on her mother’s cheek as they walked toward the foyer.
A footman entered first, turning to extend an arm to an elderly gentleman who entered slowly and carefully, making full use of an ornate cane.
