Page 20 of Captivating the Earl (Lords and Ladies in Love 5)

The stable master strode up. “What did you discover, my lord?”

“I would like to discuss this with Wycliff first.” He dismounted and entered the house, dragging the saddle with him.

Wycliff was just descending the stairs from the bedchambers floor.

“I see the physician just left. How is Miss Moore?”

“She is finally awake.”

Hawk took in a deep breath, not realizing how worried he’d been until he heard Wycliff’s words.

“The physician said no broken bones, and it appears the bump on her forehead was her only injury. She had smacked her head on a rock as she tumbled down the incline. He did suggest a day or two in bed just to be sure.” Wycliff gestured with his chin toward the saddle Hawk carried. “Did you discover anything?”

“Yes. I suggest we retire to the library.”

Both men strode down the corridor until they reached the library. With his hand on the door latch, Wycliff turned to him. “I have no idea what you’ve found, but whatever it is, I prefer to keep it quiet from the staff and my wife.”

Hawk gave him a curt nod, and they entered the room, where he placed the saddle on a table. “This is what I discovered.” Hawk held up the girth belt. “Someone cut the strap, so Miss Moore would fall and be injured—possibly even killed.”

Wycliff let out with a low whistle. He took the strap from Hawk’s hand and examined it. “Who would want to harm a governess?”

Hawk’s raised brows were his only answer.

“I know it’s early, but I could use a brandy.” Wycliff headed to the sideboard and poured two fingers into two glasses. He returned to Hawk and handed him the glass. They both downed the liquid and settled on the chairs across from each other.

“What now?” Hawk asked.

“I suppose you are considering all the questions you’ve been asking about Miss Moore.” Wycliff studied him.

“Do you agree that perhaps there are some questions that need answers?”

“I think first we need to speak with Lennon, my stable master.” Wycliff stood and picked up the saddle.

“I have already ascertained that he was the one who tacked the horse,” Hawk said as he followed Wycliff from the room. Wycliff gave him a curt nod, his lips tightened.

Earlier, the stable master had looked concerned at the news of Miss Moore’s tumble, which was, of course, the way he should have looked. “How long has Lennon been in your employ?”

“Since my father’s time. He’d been a groom for several years, then head groom, and I promoted him to stable master five years ago. The man has always done well at his job. He is married, with two daughters, I believe. His wife works in our kitchens from time to time, when we need extra help.”

“He certainly doesn’t sound like someone who would suddenly decide to harm a rider.” Hawk pushed opened the side door to the stable, where the stable master had his small office. Lennon stood as the two men entered. “What have you discovered, my lord?” He crushed his wool cap in his hands, his expression one of worry and concern.

But not guilt.

Wycliff slammed the saddle down onto a rickety table against the wall. “Take a look at this, Lennon.”

The man made his way to the table and looked at the strap Wycliff held. “It’s been cut, my lord.” His eyes grew wide as he looked at Wycliff. “Certainly, you do not think I would do such a thing?”

Wycliff laid his hand on Lennon’s shoulder. “No, my man. I have no doubt that you had nothing to do with this. What I want to know is, are there any new employees of late?” Wycliff turned to Hawk. “I usually allow Lennon to do his own hiring since he knows the place so well and understands the type of employees we need.”

Lennon nodded. “Yes, my lord. But the most recent was young Thomas Grant from the village. His father has been here with us in the stables for quite some time now. Thomas is a fine lad, and I don’t think he would do anything like this.” Lennon gestured toward the cut strap.

“Did you see anyone hanging around the stables that didn’t belong here?” Hawk asked.

“No, sir.”

Wycliff hoisted the saddle and tossed it to the floor. “I would appreciate keeping this between us, Lennon. I have no idea what is going on, but I believe the fewer people who know about this, the better.”

Lennon tugged on his cap, which he’d returned to his head. “Yes, sir.”