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Chapter One
20 November 1827
Dear Miss Sinclair,
When you requested a sabbatical, perhaps I should have inquired as to your definition of “brief”. A fortnight in Scotland seems excessive.
The Gaelic linguistic reference you requested is enclosed. I’ve examined dust motes less tedious. Surely, you’re pining for London by now.
By the by, where did you stash the blue Venetian vase we acquired in Milan? Lord Stickley has expressed an interest, as predicted. Very well, asyoupredicted. I know how you enjoy being proven prophetic.
Have you a prediction for your return to England? Mrs. Brooks, while a capable housekeeper, cannot seem to produce a proper cup of tea.
Yours sincerely,
A. Farrington
P.S. Make good use of the cloak and muff I purchased for you last year. I shouldn’t like to imagine my private secretary freezing to death before she’s finished her work. She finds incompletion vexing, you know.
*
26 November 1827
Dear Mr. Farrington,
I do, indeed, find incompletion vexing, which is why I must remain here a little while longer. Regrettably, Mrs. Brooks’ tea must suffice until I return. I pray you will survive the iniquity.
My thanks for the book. It will expedite my research, which shall expedite my return. Uncle insists this “treasure” is real, though I’ve found little evidence apart from oblique references in my family history. The Sinclairs have thus far resisted my overtures.
Occasionally, I find myself wishing for my employer’s advice, only to recall that he is hundreds of miles away in London. Dreadfully inconvenient. Doubtless you’d charm the Sinclairs into relinquishing their secrets before they’d realized the negotiation was afoot. If only you could send yourself through the post as readily as you sent the Gaelic dictionary. Alas, Uncle’s assistant, Mr. Gibbs, must suffice. He is as poor a substitute as Mrs. Brooks’ weak tea.
As noted in the account book I placed on your desk, the blue vase is on loan to Mr. Busby for his Murano glass display. If you offer him the sixteenth-century dragon stem goblet instead, he may be persuaded to return it straight away.
Ever your servant,
E. Sinclair
P.S. Might I trouble you to send my mother’s ring with your next reply? I may shortly have need of it.
*
2 December 1827
Miss Sinclair,
For what possible purpose could you require your mother’s ring? And when did your uncle hire a new assistant? I assumed you were traveling with your cousin George. Traveling alone with an unmarried man is the height of foolishness.
Perhaps I should join you. Awaiting your reply—and your explanation.
Yrs,
A. Farrington
*
8 December 1827
Dear Mr. Farrington,
