Clarion joined them just then, and all rose to bow. He waved them down and sat across from Eli. “I won’t keep you long. You’ll want a warm bath and a good sleep, I warrant. I’ve already heard Corporal Goodfellow’s account. I must say I had my doubts about the decision to send Miss Hancock cross-country with only one man for her protection and would not have countenanced it if I’d been there.”
“We had few good choices, my lord,” Eli said.
The earl nodded. “I can see that, and it ended well enough but at some cost to my sister. How is it you came to be on foot?”
Eli explained about bolting horses and rocks under shoes, flooded streams, and brambles.
“Am I to understand she slept on the ground?” The earl appeared horrified.
“She did, indeed. I sat with a weapon nearby.” Eli didn’t mention she’d slept in his arms.
“You were alone with her all night,” the earl said, brows raised.
“Yes, my lord. Her safety demanded it.” Eli didn’t like Clarion’s troubled expression, but the earl gave a firm nod at his words.
“Well done, Benson. Thank you for your vigilance. She’s safe here.” The earl rose. “You’ll want to bathe and change.”
“That won’t be necessary. I’m fit—as the good doctor here can vouch.” He nodded toward Farley, who had risen as well. “I’ll be at my desk tomorrow. Perhaps I can begin looking for that property we discussed.”
“For my sister and her siblings? Not as long as there is any sort of threat. They are safer here. Goodfellow has the security well in hand. You rest tomorrow.”
“I’m sure work has accumulated on my desk.”
Clarion smiled one of his sad smiles. “I’m certain it has. In addition, word has come about your inquiries in the Manchester courts. I’ll have it put on your desk in the morning as well.” He turned at the door. “How did your tasks in London go?”
“Without problems. Bank audited. Dower house rental posted to the papers. I’ll give you my report on publishing houses tomorrow.”
“Well done, Benson, efficient as always.” The earl left him, and the cook pushed another slice of tart his way.
That will be my epitaph. Eli Benson—he was an efficient soul.His appetite gone, he gave the extra slice to Wil.
