“Of course I’ll look them over. Do you have any preference for how many to include?”
“Well, I don’t want them to be the only news of the day. I’ve written an article about the growing tensions with the British and their interference with trade and the impressment of American sailors,” Jacob said, handing him his article. “People should be aware of what’s happening in our country. I think a good mix of news and helpful articles, as well as a few recipes, will work best, but I’ll leave the final layout to you.”
“Your article will get top billing, and I’ll get right on the rest of the placements,” Robert said, standing. “Do you think these tensions with the British will lead to war?”
“I honestly don’t know, but our readers seem to like it when we cover things like this. No one likes to be kept in the dark.”
“Your writing is compelling, Jacob. It’s always straightforward and easy to understand.”
“Thank you. By the way, I believe there’s enough material to begin including some women’s articles in the Wednesday edition as well,” Jacob said, walking with his editor back to his office.
Robert whistled through his teeth when he saw the stack of papers. “You weren’t kidding, huh? That pile will be enough for the next month, maybe longer.”
“I want to keep the Friday edition as the mainstay for the women’s articles, but I’m certainly not opposed to any article or recipe being included in the Monday or Wednesday editions if you need to fill space.”
Robert nodded as he scooped up the stack of letters. “Not a problem. I’ll take care of it.”
“Thanks, Robert.”
As Robert left his office, Jacob took a seat behind his desk. He’d accomplished everything he ever wanted to do and more. He was a published journalist and the co-owner of a popular newspaper. With each new level of success he achieved, he was sad he couldn’t share it with his parents. That would have made his achievements mean so much more.
Jacob knew he owed a lot of the paper’s success to his employees, and he was adamant about paying them a living wage. He didn’t believe he should be the only one to reap the rewards of his success. He knew all the men by name and made a point of learning about their families. He wanted his workers to be happy to come to work.
Happy employees meant a productive staff, and Jacob knew his staff well. They were a dedicated group who took great pride in their work. The paper was turning a very good profit, and soon, he hoped that he would be able to share a bigger share of that profit with the employees, but first, he needed to consult Henry. Hevalued his insight and judgment.
Jacob pulled on his jacket, intent on talking with Henry about his latest idea sooner rather than later, but a young boy appeared at the door before he could leave.
“Jacob Stanford?” the boy asked.
Jacob nodded. “Yes, that’s me.”
The boy held out a letter. “I was told to put this directly in your hands.”
Jacob took the letter and pulled a coin out of his pocket. “Here. You did well.”
The boy snatched the coin and ran out of the office before Jacob could utter another word. He went back to his desk and sat down, tearing open the letter.
Mr. Jacob Stanford,
I am pleased to inform you that you are the long-lost heir to the Fletcher title and estate in England. Your presence is required as soon as possible to claim the title. Please present yourself at my office in London at your earliest convenience.
Colin Haggerty
Solicitor
Jacob stared at the letter.
What was this?
How could he be the heir to an English title?
He’d never heard of a Lord Fletcher or anything about an estate in England. His parents had nevermentioned having relatives across the pond. This clearly must be a mistake. Now he had even more reason to go visit Henry. He needed his wise counsel about what he should do next.
Thirty minutes later, he was seated in Henry’s study while his partner read over the letter.
“You say this came this morning?”
“Yes, but it doesn’t make any sense. I don’t have any relatives in England, and certainly not anyone connected to English society.”
