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“I will,” Matthew said. “I’ll also consider your offer, truly. It’s very generous.”
“I couldn’t think of a man better suited for the job, and I’m happy to also hire Edward and Charles. Tell them that for me.”
“I will.”
Reginald hesitated. There was one other matter, tingling at the back of his mind. “Have you heard anything of Isaac?”
Matthew shook his head. “Nothing since shortly after your arrest, but then, we don’t travel in the same circles. I’m quite sure he’s trying not to be noticed after betraying you, especially considering what you are now.”
“How many people in Southwark know I’m a Marquess?” Reginald asked.
“It’s a rumor,” Matthew replied. “The constable has been spreading it around, but everyone knows he’ll say anything once he’s in his cups for the evening. I’ve not said anything, though. I wasn’t sure if you’d want me to. If you like, I can ask a few people and see what I learn.”
Reginald frowned, silently weighing the danger in such a task. Once, he wouldn’t have questioned it, but Isaac had betrayed him. Had betrayed all of them. Who knew what the man might do if he learned that the future Marquess of Hurrow was seeking him out?
“No,” Reginald said reluctantly. “It’s nothing that you need to worry about. I had just wondered if you knew anything.”
“I wish I had something I could tell you.”
“It’s fine. I’ve just been trying to figure some things out.” Reginald reached into the pocket of his coat and withdrew the four shillings he’d brought with him. “For Emma and your children.”
“I can’t possibly—”
Reginald curled his hand over Matthew’s and dropped the money into his palm without waiting for any further protestations. “Like your wife said, I’m a Marquess now. It’s a small amount to me, and if you don’t take it, know that I’ve every intention of dropping it on the street outside your lovely home.”
Matthew shook his head and pocketed the money. “Thank you.”
Reginald nodded and tipped his hat. “I’ll send you word soon. You can give me an answer, then. Give the children my best.”
“I will.”
Reginald smiled as he turned away. He walked along the familiar streets of Southwark, and for the first time since meeting his father, he felt truly free. More like himself again. Reginald sighed and watched his breath frost the air, floating upwards until it disappeared into the night sky.
What he really wanted to know waswhyIsaac had betrayed him. And had Isaac known who Reginald was? It seemed like a great coincidence for Reginald to have robbed his own father’s carriage. Too great of a coincidence.
