Page 11

It certainly needed a more graceful touch. Luckily, Edward could provide just that.

“You are welcome to come and go as needed through the servants’ entrance,” the butler continued, “but Mr. Coventry expects a full day’s work from you every day apart from Sunday. Of course, he is not averse to you needing an extra day or two to await supplies or to recoup from your work.”

That was fair enough.

Edward placed his hands on his hips as he distractedly examined the ceiling. He could create a very elegant design along the edges of the squares, yet still showcase the masculinity of the wood. Perhaps a grand floral design with wave-like shapes would serve him well.

“I was told Mr. Coventry discussed the matter of payment with you?” Mr. Morley asked.

“Yes, he did.” Mr. Coventry had promised to pay Edward after a month’s worth of work, which was more than generous. Shocking, really, in comparison to Lord Ryecombe’s behavior.

Still distracted, Edward continued to glance about the room. In the corner was a dark-red, oversized chair pushed up against the window that featured a spectacular view of the estate. Beside the chair, a small table was situated with a stack of books and…were those crumbs spread about the top of them?

Mr. Morley’s words cut through his musings. “There will be meals available from our own cook, providing you agree to have a small fee taken from your income.”

Edward nodded. “That would be most appreciated.” Especially after the stale meal he’d consumed at the Blue Boar last evening.

Mr. Morley extended a piece of paper folded three times. “Here is a list of Mr. Coventry’s requirements. I hope you have been warned of the work ahead of you, Mr. Steele.”

Edward scanned the items requiring detailing. Just as Mr. Coventry had said, this was easily three months’ worth of work, if not more.

He smiled. “I am more than ready, Mr. Morley. I assure you.”

A flicker of approval flashed in the butler’s eyes. “This end of the house is usually silent, so you will be left relatively undisturbed. Should you be in need of anything, simply alert us with the bellpull and someone shall be sent to help you.” He walked to the door. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must make ready for Mrs. Coventry’s callers.”

“Thank you, Mr. Morley.”

The butler departed with a nod.

When Edward was left alone, he drew in a deep breath and took in the work ahead of him. His hands tapped anxiously against his leg, itching to feel that smooth wood with his fingertips.

He hoped Mr. Chapple would be patient with the rent due. He hoped Mother would be all right without him. And he hoped Mr. Coventry would approve of his work.

But Edward? He was going to be just fine.

He removed the satchel from his shoulder, laying it down on a nearby table. As he pulled the tools out, lining the chisels and mallet neatly in a row, footsteps padded outside the door.

He paused. Had Mr. Morley forgotten a part of his instruction?

But the butler never appeared.

“Hello?” Edward called out.

Silence replied.

He walked to the door with narrowed eyes, poking his head around the corner, but no one was there. Perhaps he’d simply imagined the footsteps. Or maybe the house was haunted.

He smiled, amused with himself. He certainly was in a good mood.

With an indifferent sigh, he returned to the bookshelves crying out to be beautified. This was going to be a dream realized, carving these shelves, and he couldn’t wait to get started.

Marianne pressed up against the wall, blood rushing in her ears. Who was that man, and why was he in her house?

She’d been distracted walking to the library that morning, so eager to continue reading about Hamlet and Ophelia—for the third time—that she hadn’t seen the imposter until she’d rounded the corner. Thankfully, she’d pulled back before he’d seen her.

She chewed on her lower lip, contemplating what to do next. Should she scream? Alert Mother? Ring for a footman to expel the ruffian from the premises?

No. There was no time. He was obviously there to steal something. She needed to act swiftly.