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“I-I suppose we missed seeing each other.”

Not one to mince words when William was being less than truthful, Mrs. Barnes said, “I informed Mr. Adams that you had slept in the study again, and he might wish to go back to his apartment and wait for you to ring for him.”

“I can always count on you to speak candidly.”

“Yes, you can. Might I say, too, that your choice to sleep in this study instead of your bed has been noted by more servants than just the two of us. It is not a good thing for the master to appear … unstable, if I may use that term.”

William nodded. “I understand. Moreover, I will try to remember to make use of my bed in the future.”

With that, the elderly woman did something she had not done in years. She reached out to pat his hand. “I have been the housekeeper here since you were in leading strings, and at times I forget that you are a grown man now. Forgive me if I let my heart overrule my mouth when it should remain silent.”

William smiled at the woman who was like another mother to him. “I know you have my best interests at heart; please do not hesitate to chastise me when you feel it necessary.”

Mrs. Barnes blushed, offering a warm smile and a quick curtsey before going about her work.

Having finished two cups of coffee and eaten a scone, William felt ready to begin looking over the paperwork for the tenant houses again. He was doing just that when another knock on the door interrupted his concentration.

Steeling himself not to appear exasperated, he called, “Come!”

A footman holding a silver salver stacked high with letters came in and set it down on the end of the desk. Picking up the top letter, the servant held it out. “This was just delivered by one of Lady Morgan’s footmen, sir. The courier has instructions to wait for an answer.”

Sighing loudly, William picked up the missive, unfolded it and read:

Mr. Darcy,

There is a matter of utmost importance that I must speak with you about today, if possible. I pray you will be able to accommodate me. Please advise what time I may expect you.

Jane Morgan

Taking up the pen he had just put down, William wrote on the bottom of Jane’s note:

I will be there within the hour.

F. D.

Folding the missive, he held it out to the footman. “Tell the courier I replied at the bottom of Lady Morgan’s letter.”

The footman nodded, departing as William quickly riffled through the rest of the letters, looking for anything from Richard. Recognising one with his cousin’s handwriting, he ripped it open.

Darcy,

Just a quick note to say I am leaving Lambton today. I carry news for General Lassiter regarding the murders. It is far less than I had hoped to uncover, but a possible witness is better than none at all. I must credit Miss Bennet for the discovery, which she and I are hopeful will eventually lead to solid evidence. By the way, I intend to push her towards staying at Pemberley after I leave. Wish me luck as she is still as stubborn as she was at Kent.

There is not enough time to explain fully now. That will have to wait until I see you next. I am first for Hertfordshire to deliver Mr. Hill to Netherfield and then to leave a man at Partridge Crossings before going on to London.

Expect me in three days, four at the most.

Richard

Richard’s mention of Elizabeth was like a dagger to William’s heart. Still, he felt it best that his cousin was the one squiring around the woman who still owned his heart. He was in no frame of mind to deal with her presence again and was uncertain if he ever would be. Slipping the letter inside his coat, William said a prayer as he rose to go upstairs to dress.

Lord, whatever Lady Morgan wants, please let it have nothing to do with Elizabeth.

Chapter 17

London

Lady Morgan’s Townhouse