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CHAPTER10
Light pierced Slade’s lids, and he pulled his pillow over this face before recognizing the familiar sound of the heavy dark green velvet curtains sliding across the iron window rod. His brain scrambled to determine the day of the week and why he was being awoken at this ungodly hour.
“My lord, you asked me to wake you early and remind you of a meeting at the wharf this morning.” Talbert said, opening the curtains in his room.
Opening his eyes, he stared at the ceiling. Life had moved so quickly these past several weeks. His father had died, and Slade had not seen him in almost a year. His brother was faking his death, hoping to draw out the killer of his father. And Slade had finally met a woman who drew him to her. His father would be happy about that. He was certain of it. Talbert had asked if he had plans to take over his father’s rooms as duke, but he had declined. He liked his rooms. He had no plans to change. His brother would be home soon—he would make sure of it.
Rubbing his eyes, he sat up. “Talbert, I am glad to see you. What time did you get in?”
“It was late, my lord. I chose not to disturb you but knew you would want to know what I found out in Brighton,” his valet said, laying out his clothing. “And your bath is ready for you.”
“Wonderful to both things!” Slade moved over to the side of the bed and grabbed the robe lying across the bottom of his mattress. Easing into it, he stood. “What did you find?” he asked, walking toward the tub and lowering himself into the water after discarding his robe.
“According to her servants, she had been very busy on the social scene, and had done quite a lot of entertaining,” he began.
“I figured as much,” murmured Slade.
“She maintained propriety, and only women visited, as she was betrothed,” Talbert continued. “I understand that when she and her mother left, they said they would not be back for some time and to cover the furniture.”
“Seems like her existence was all legitimate,” Slade commented.
“Except for the time they saw a man with dark hair and a black mustache arguing with her across the street from the family’s townhouse,” added Talbert. “My source did not recognize him as anyone that had ever visited.”
Interesting. “Any other details?” Slade probed.
“Not much, my lord. Only that his clothes were in some disrepair. They did not get a good look at him. She walked in and said a beggar had accosted her but told the footman not to do anything.”
“Strange, to be sure. Thank you for doing that, Talbert. I am sure I can trust you to keep this between us.”
“Of course, my lord.”
Slade leaned back in the tub and took a few minutes to soak and think. He had not yet seen Graham but had received a note from Wortle upon arriving, saying his brother had awoken. He was most anxious to see him. Worry over Graham had preoccupied him throughout the journey, to the point of distraction. It took him two tries to focus on the damn campfire where the dog was found. Investigating it should have been second nature to him.
A stomach rumble reminded Slade he needed to break his fast, and he dressed quickly. Leaving his room, he met Latham on the stairs.
“Good morning, Hertford,” Latham said as they descended the stairs together.
“Ah, good! You are up,” Slade replied.
“I should not remind you that you are the late riser,” laughed Latham.
“That is true. Let us make our plans for the day as we break our fast together. I need sustenance,” he chuckled as the two hurried toward the breakfast room.
Slade was thankful Latham had bunked in the guest quarters and planned to accompany him to Henrietta Street to see Graham. The two planned to check on their ship, which had been due into port, and meet with Wortle. They wanted to fill the man in on what they had found. Slade told Latham what the blacksmith had shared, and both were more convinced than ever someone had targeted the duke, although the reason had not yet become apparent. Wortle planned to meet at the tavern where they had originally met him. He had added more coins to his purse before leaving his apartments. He would need flowers as he planned to stop by Lady Bella’s to see if she would be up for an outing tomorrow—hopefully, a visit to Hyde Park and perhaps Gunter’s, if the weather cooperated.
“Looks like snow today,” Slade remarked. Jeffers would have his heavier coat, gloves, and hat at the ready.
“Are we going to meet Wortle?” Latham asked.
“Yes. Wortle’s note said Graham was doing well, but the combination of drugs had left him woozy on top of his other injuries. This has been difficult for everyone. I let Mother and Tabetha know, and they are most eager to see him, although that will be much trickier. They have their hands full getting Gracie acquainted to the staff and them to her.” He chuckled. Although he wondered where the little girl would end up sleeping. She had a mind of her own.
“She seems to be both overwhelmed and right at home with your family,” Latham agreed with a laugh.
“I have never seen Mother take to any animal as she has taken to that small dog. I do not think I told you, but the dog also dances. ’Tis a waltz of sorts, but enchanting. She makes me laugh,” Slade added.
“No. I would want to see that. She seems to have been someone’s dog. Those dogs traditionally have hard lives ferreting out rats and working on spits in large kitchens. I believe she knows how lucky she is to have landed with this family, however that came about,” Latham replied.
“That reminds me. I need to have a farrier examine her,” Slade mentioned, as if prompting himself.
