Page 50 of A Bloom for a Blacksmith

“Oh, well, I’m not traveling as much these days, but I obviously spend a good deal of my time reading,” she said, waving to indicate they were literally surrounded by books.

“Of course,” he said, allowing a grin. “Perhaps someday Lady Woodhurst and I can host you and your husband for tea. Or dinner,” he suggested.

Stella wondered at how he made the comment until she realized he wished to discuss it with his wife before extending the formal invitation. “We would like that, although I should warn you, Mr. Agremon—”

“Agremon?” he interrupted. “The inventor? Of the Agremon Steamer?”

Giving a start, Stella said, “How do you know about that?”

“Well, it’s been discussed at length at my club,” he said. “I believe it has a prominent place in the betting books. Care to give a non-gambler an idea of whether or not it will become a reality? Will it really work?”

Grinning, Stella glanced back at Iris, knowing full well the girl was eavesdropping. She couldn’t blame her. “I have it on very good authority the Agremon Steamer was taken out on its maiden drive earlier today in Mayfair.”

Lord Woodhurst’s eyes widened. “Today?” He glanced toward the door. “Can… can anyone claim to have seen it?”

“At that time of the day? I rather imagine dozens did so,” she replied. “However, the engine is very quiet, so it doesn’t make as much noise as horses do. I heard only that it spooked a horse, but otherwise caused no trouble.”

“Madam, this news is good.”

“Do with it as you will, my lord, but I think it’s only fair to let you know that it’s not the first steam passenger vehicle in England.”

“What’s this?”

“As I understand it, the very first one was the ‘Puffing Devil.’ Richard Trevithick created it down in Cornwall over thirty years ago.” She glanced over at the counter and saw that the book Darius had been reading on Saturday was still there. “I believe the details are included in John Farey’s Treatise on the Steam Engine,” she added, pointing to the book. “My husband is merely attempting to improve on the idea.”

“Huh,” he replied. “Well, that shan’t prevent me from putting a bit of blunt on the bet,” he said, grinning.

“Perhaps you will use part of your winnings to buy some more books?”

Chuckling, he nodded. “I shall do that.” He gave her a slight bow. “Good day, Mrs. Agremon. And if you could pass along my congratulations to Mr. Agremon?”

She nodded. “I shall do so, my lord. Good day.”

Stella curtsied and watched out the window as the viscount took his leave. When he had disappeared from view, she turned around and heaved a sigh of relief. With the viscount’s departure, the buzzing sensation ceased.

“He didn’t sound like a disgruntled customer,” Iris commented.

“He was not. Last week, he purchased some books for his wife. For her birthday. She’s quite pleased. But…” She held up the envelope. “This was tucked inside one of them, and he was determined it be returned to me.”

Iris glanced at the missive. “Is it yours?”

“It is,” Stella said, although she hesitated a moment before saying so.

“It was very kind of him to make the trip to give it to you,” Iris commented.

“It was.” Concerned the viscount had done so because he suspected something out of the ordinary, Stella realized she needed to read the letter. With any luck, Darius wouldn’t have mentioned anything about their immortality, or worse, dated the letter with the year he wrote it. “I’ll be in my office,” she said, glancing at the shelves Iris was filling. “You’re doing good work,” she added before she ducked into the office and closed the door.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Fetching a Stone

Meanwhile, at Lambeth Pier

With repairs underway on Blackfriars Bridge, Angus opted to head back to Westminster Bridge in order to cross the Thames. He barely noticed the buildings he passed, nor did he pay attention to any of the pedestrians, other than to make sure he didn’t run over any of them. His attention was on his mind’s eye.

On the image of Miss Iris O’Connor.

Call me Iris.