“That is true. Let us make our plans for the day as we break our fast together. I need sustenance,” he chuckled as the two hurried toward the breakfast room.
Slade was thankful Latham had bunked in the guest quarters and planned to accompany him to Henrietta Street to see Graham. The two planned to check on their ship, which had been due into port, and meet with Wortle. They wanted to fill the man in on what they had found. Slade told Latham what the blacksmith had shared, and both were more convinced than ever someone had targeted the duke, although the reason had not yet become apparent. Wortle planned to meet at the tavern where they had originally met him. He had added more coins to his purse before leaving his apartments. He would need flowers as he planned to stop by Lady Bella’s to see if she would be up for an outing tomorrow—hopefully, a visit to Hyde Park and perhaps Gunter’s, if the weather cooperated.
“Looks like snow today,” Slade remarked. Jeffers would have his heavier coat, gloves, and hat at the ready.
“Are we going to meet Wortle?” Latham asked.
“Yes. Wortle’s note said Graham was doing well, but the combination of drugs had left him woozy on top of his other injuries. This has been difficult for everyone. I let Mother and Tabetha know, and they are most eager to see him, although that will be much trickier. They have their hands full getting Gracie acquainted to the staff and them to her.” He chuckled. Although he wondered where the little girl would end up sleeping. She had a mind of her own.
“She seems to be both overwhelmed and right at home with your family,” Latham agreed with a laugh.
“I have never seen Mother take to any animal as she has taken to that small dog. I do not think I told you, but the dog also dances. ’Tis a waltz of sorts, but enchanting. She makes me laugh,” Slade added.
“No. I would want to see that. She seems to have been someone’s dog. Those dogs traditionally have hard lives ferreting out rats and working on spits in large kitchens. I believe she knows how lucky she is to have landed with this family, however that came about,” Latham replied.
“That reminds me. I need to have a farrier examine her,” Slade mentioned, as if prompting himself.
The butler met them at the door. “Your Grace, shall I tell your mother you will be back for dinner? She asked that I find out before you left.”
“Yes, please let her know we will be back in time.” He took his gloves from the aging butler and began putting them on. “Jeffers, have a farrier of excellent reputation examine Gracie. I want to make sure she has everything she needs. Mother is already attached.”
“Yes, Your Grace,” Jeffers said, handing both men their heavier winter attire.
Slade winced. He would have to use his brother’s title—although he hoped it would not be for long. He gave a quick nod to the rotund older man before exiting the house. The two men took the steps quickly and mounted the horses, waiting for them.
“Perhaps we should have taken the coach. Winston hates the slower traffic of London,” Slade remarked as they headed towards the port side of London. Their ship was due into port, and they were eager to speak with Mercer and Ballard to find out how the trip had gone and if there had been any further trouble. They were also eager to see Wortle and find out what he knew about Graham and some of the background information they had been seeking.
With the dinner hour fast approaching, the tavern was likely busy. That would make their visit easier. Another one of their ships had docked. A young man stood on the sidewalk outside of the tavern. Slade thought he recognized the young man from a fortnight ago when he met Wortle, although his concentration had not been the best during that visit.
“A shilling if you can watch our horses and see that they are watered,” Slade offered the young man as they dismounted.
“Yes, m’lord. Oi will take good care of them. M’ name’s Sully,” the young man said, doffing his hat and accepting the proffered coin. “Oi will take them to the stable over there,” he said, pointing across the street.
“Here’s one shilling. You will get the other when we conclude our business here,” he said, handing Winston’s lead to the young man.
“Same for me, Sully,” Latham said, handing the young boy an additional shilling.
“I ain’t never seen two more handsome ’orses,” he added. “I will brush them fer ye, fer nothing extra.”
Slade smiled. “Take care of them, is all we ask.”
Confident that the horses were being cared for, the two men walked inside the tavern, taking a few moments for their eyes to adjust to the darker light. The tavern was hopping with sailors that had come in earlier in the day. A buxom woman made her way over towards them.
“We are meeting someone here,” Slade said, looking towards the back of the bar. “Ah, I see him.” He pointed towards Wortle, who was sitting towards the back, drinking from a mug of ale.
“Two ales,” Latham said, taking his seat.
“If ye be needing a little extra, Annie can help ye out,” she said. “Blond men are my favorite,” she added, boldly rubbing up against Latham.
Slade quirked a brow of amusement at his friend.
“I do not have time for anything extra,” Latham said politely, “but I shall keep your offer in mind.”
“See that you do, milord,” she said, running her hand down his arm before turning and emphasizing her generous derriere with a pronounced movement as she returned to the front.
“She likes them blond. I believe she likes any man with . . . coin,” Slade taunted as she walked away, sipping his ale.
“Seems to.” Latham laughed, apparently used to the flattering deference given by tavern workers. “I saw Mercer and Ballard at the bar. Let me join them and allow you to catch up with Wortle. I am eager to hear about this shipment.” Latham left the table and took his ale with him.
