Miss Darvey’s apology seemed to mollify her friends, at least for now.
Chapter 11
George had spent hours scouringthe books, trying to find a way to economize even further than he already had. He looked up from his desk at a knock on the door.
“Come.”
Peters came in carrying a silver salver. “This just arrived for you, my lord.
“Thank you, Peters,” George said, taking the letter. He recognized the handwriting. Perhaps Richard had some information about their investment. He broke the seal and read the contents.
Hutchinson,
Please come around at your earliest convenience. I have news.
Evans
The day might improve after all. George folded the letter, put it in his pocket, and left the study. Peters was still in the hall. “My hat and cane, Peters.”
“Of course, sir. Do you want the carriage brought around?”
George shook his head. “No, I’ll walk today.”
Peters handed over the hat and cane before opening the door.
“Don’t wait luncheon for me. I don’t know when I’ll return.”
“Very good, my lord. I’ll inform Cook.”
It didn’t take George long to walk to Evans House. He let the knocker bang down, and the door opened almost immediately.
“Lord Hutchinson, may I help you?” Wright asked.
“Lord Evans has requested my presence.”
“Of course, my lord,” the butler said, stepping back and opening the door wide to allow him to enter. “Shall I announce you, sir?”
“No need, Wright. I know the way.”
George strode down the hallway and knocked on the study door.
“Come.”
He opened the door and walked in. “Evans, I was very happy to receive your note. Do you have good news for me?”
Evans smiled. “Yes and no.”
“No?”
“According to my man of business, the investment is doing quite well.”
“That’s good, but what’s the bad news?”
“Unfortunately, the funds won’t be available to withdraw for another three months.”
“I see,” George said, his shoulders sagging. He’d been hoping for an influx of funds sooner than that.
“I know this is unfortunate news. I’d be happy to loan you the funds you need in the meantime if you’d like.”
