Joshua strode out of the house, having no interest in continuing such a futile discussion. The woman was mad, thinking he would wed her, or that she could extort the care and feeding of a stranger’s child from him. He tugged at his gloves, more than a little annoyed by the exchange.
“I shall ensure that everyone remembered you have been gone from Nottingham for the better part of a decade, sir, and only returned two months ago. Whoever the father of that child, it cannot be you.”
“I thank you, Darney, for your consideration. I recall that your wife is a good cook. Perhaps I might enjoy an early supper at the inn before riding home.”
The innkeeper beamed. “It would be my pleasure, sir, to be sure.”
The pair proceeded back to the main thoroughfare, Joshua noting that his boots would have to be cleaned again.
“Sir!” someone called from behind him but he did not turn. “Lord Addersley?”
Joshua glanced back to find the boy Francis hastening after him, his eyes alight. “Is it true, sir? Did you say I could be apprenticed to learn a trade?”
“I did indeed, Francis. If you find a tradesman willing to have you as his apprentice, you have only to speak to Mr. Newson. If all parties are agreeable, we shall see it arranged.”
“Oh, sir! I should like more than anything to be a blacksmith.”
“Then you must present yourself as a willing candidate to that man, and perhaps work for him for a while to earn his agreement. Mr. Darney can assist you in your address to Mr. Newson, if necessary.”
“Thank you, sir!” the boy bowed low before him. “I will watch your horse whenever you come to town, sir. You have only to call me.”
“Thank you, Francis.”
The boy bowed again, then darted down the street, doubtless headed for the smithy without delay. No matter how awkward the exchange, Joshua knew he had done the right thing, and he believed that Francis would make the most of his newfound opportunity.
The boy also could not be blamed for the nature of his relations, but with this small advantage, he might well escape their influence, which could only be an improvement.
“He is a good lad,” Darney said quietly. “Your suggestion is both generous and sensible, sir.”
“The boy’s conception is not his fault. He should have the opportunity to make something of himself.”
“Ah, since he is not to be a viscount,” Darney rolled his eyes as he laughed. “Ah well, he will not be the first to have compromised his mother’s aspirations.” He chuckled and Joshua smiled a little, glad to have the task behind him. “Thereis beef stew today, sir, and a plum tart. I must say, my Louisa makes a plum tart beyond all others.”
“That sounds most excellent, Darney. I look forward to the meal.” He would pause to speak to Mr. Newson before returning home.
Then he had the promise of a rendezvous with Miss Emerson at the folly to consume his thoughts. He had no doubt that she would venture there, and the morrow promised to be fine. He looked forward to having all confusion between them cleared, and could only hope to end the encounter with a kiss.
That possibility put a spring in Joshua’s step as little else could have done.
CHAPTER 11
His cloak was gone.
Joshua could not believe it, but the garment had vanished as surely as if it had never been. He became vexed as he sought it. Reed had no notion of what had happened to it, and had not taken it for mending or cleaning. It was not within his wardrobe or even in the trunk of garments from London.
The thief who had invaded his home repeatedly had changed tactics, in a most incomprehensible way.
Who would steal a cloak?
It was a very good cloak, but hardly worth taking the risk of such an intrusion.
Because of the hunt, Joshua was late leaving for the folly. He had no doubt that Miss Emerson would be there, awaiting him. She would never have resisted the temptation of such an assignation, especially now that she had guessed the truth of his ruse. He would ride there, apologize to her for the deception, and ensure that all was clear between them.
He hoped for a kiss or another sign of encouragement.
He had not yet decided whether to ask for her hand again before or after Lady Haynesdale’s ball. If the night was fine, Miss Emerson might find favor in a moonlight proposal.
He wore his usual coat and hat, tugging on his gloves as he strode toward the stables. Specter was saddled and waiting. Joshua halfway thought the stallion was disappointed that he had ridden Zephyr on his night ventures, for on this day, the horse was even more responsive than was his custom. He barely needed any encouragement to canter from the yard, then was urged to a gallop with ease.
