“I appreciate any and all assistance.” He shook his head. “I certainly haven’t been able to locate the family despite hours of searching. It’s frustrating.”
Thomas seemed disappointed with himself for not finding them. In her opinion, it would be a small miracle if he did, given the circumstances.
“It’s a big city. But I have complete faith in you.” If anyone could do it, he could.
His gaze held on her, and he slowly smiled. “Thank you. That means more than I can say.”
“It’s true.” She believed in him with all her heart. “And I meant what I said—that I want to help. I can’t imagine having to return to Peter each time you venture out only to share that you’ve had no luck.”
She glanced at the clerk and the customer, then drew closer to keep her voice low. “Lady Harriet’s uncle is fluent in German, which could prove useful. The league members are speaking with their servants to ask them to mention the situation to other servants to see if anyone can aid in the search. You’d be surprised by the network among the servants. At times, I think they’re better connected than the ton.”
“I’m sure that’s true. It’s a fine idea.”
“Do you know the specific region Peter’s family is from?” When Thomas shook his head, she said, “We wondered if there’s a specific place—a church or a tavern or the like—in the East End where immigrants from that particular area gather.”
“I’ll find out. Excellent idea. I hadn’t thought to visit churches, but I will add that to the list as well.”
“With so many possibilities, I’m sure it’s overwhelming. Perhaps we could create a message of some sort to explain the situation and have it distributed to those places rather than you trying to visit every one of them.”
“That could be helpful.”
“Spreading the word might be our best hope since the family has relocated. Someone in the area has to know them.”
“I shall have Peter help me write down the details,” Thomas said.
“If you send it to me, I’ll have it printed. I realize many in the East End are illiterate, but hopefully, between us telling people and the flyers, word will quickly spread. Several members have volunteered their servants to help hand them out.”
“My goodness.” His brows lifted in surprise. “That is very kind of you. Especially when you have the ball to worry about.”
“Such endeavors come easier when there are so many helping.” She smiled. “That is one of the reasons I love our group.”
“You are lucky to have such good friends.”
“I am.” She held his gaze, wishing she could do something to aid him further, or at least, improve his spirits. “I consider myself blessed to know you as well.”
His blue eyes heated, causing an answering heat in her. “I feel the same way, Frances. In fact, I—”
The bell tinkled, announcing the arrival of another customer before he could finish what he was saying.
“Miss Melbourne?”
Frances turned to see Viscount Merriweather approaching, a gentleman with whom she’d been acquainted for several years. His father and hers knew one another well. Merriweather had always been polite but never went out of his way to speak with her.
At least, not until now.
“G-good afternoon.” She curtsied, taken aback when Merriweather drew closer as if he intended to converse with her. She stiffened at the thought. She wanted him to leave so she could hear what Thomas had been about to say.
He nodded at Thomas and then looked back at her. “Searching for a book, are you?” He glanced around the shop. “I’d be happy to recommend one.”
“No need,” she said, annoyance filling her at his suggestion since she was certain she knew books better than he did. His comment reminded her that he’d acted rather arrogant the few times they’d spoken.
“It’s no trouble,” he continued with a broad smile. “Happy to help a friend.” The emphasis he placed on the word had her staring at him in confusion.
Then it dawned on Frances why he was suddenly showing an interest in her. Her father must’ve told his father about the increase in her dowry. They belonged to the same club. She nearly groaned in frustration.
A glance out of the corner of her eye showed Thomas watching them with curiosity. The last thing she wanted was for him to think she was interested in the viscount. Better that she leave before Merriweather said something to make her even more uncomfortable.
“Thank you, but I must be going.” She shifted her attention to Thomas. “I hope to receive that information from you soon.”
