I could see the realization dawn of George. “Anyone in the stables might have known that.”
“Or anyone in the house. Michael would have valeted him that day. If Leo wore riding gear, Michael would have drawn the obvious conclusion. He could have mentioned it to Mr. Durant.”
“Durant?”
“Is one of the staff more likely to want to injure Leo? He might have told anyone he planned to ride. Unless he intended to ride across the field, he would naturally have ridden down that lane. It would be easy enough for someone to set that trap for him.”
George came to his feet and paced a few steps back and forth, rubbing his hand over his chin. “Leo and I were standing by the targets when that arrow hit Charles. It could have been meant for Leo.”
I nodded. “What about the footman and the arsenic? We don’t know where the scene of that crime was.” I cut myself short and clutched George’s arm. “Maybe we do. Michael and the first footman cleared the earl’s office after you gentlemen had your meeting there two days ago. Ben told me Michael drank the sherry left in the glasses.”
I sprang to my feet as the realization came to me. “Leo didn’t drink his sherry. The footman, Michael, drank the sherry meant for Leo.”
“What do you mean, meant for Leo? We all had glasses of sherry. Are you suggesting someone managed to poison only Leo’s?”
“I think I am,” I said, horrified by the revelation. “Help me remember who was in the room.”
We made a mental list of everyone. Aside from George and myself, there was Durant, Robert Nash, Leo, Treadwell, John Winnie, and Tuttle.
“Durant poured the sherry, Treadwell and Winnie passed out the glasses. It seemed random enough, but what if it wasn’t? If Charles, Mr. Gibbs, and Michael O’Brien were all in the wrong place at the wrong time, Leo might be the real target of this attack.”
George came slowly to his feet. “How well do Durant and Treadwell know each other?”
“I’ve no idea. Why?”
“Both men have some sort of motive. What if they’re working together?”
“One poisoned the sherry, the other handed it to Leo?”
“We need to find out if that sherry was poisoned.” He took my hand and led me back through the formal gardens and to the north wing. Pushing open the door, he escorted me inside and down the hallway to the earl’s offices.
“If only Leo’s glass was poisoned, the rest of the sherry would be fine. What do you expect to find?”
“Perhaps the missing rat poison?”
We set about searching the cabinet behind the massive desk where the earl kept his records, his cigars, and several bottles of sherry.
“Odd that your brother only stocks sherry.” I moved the two dusty bottles aside only to find an empty cabinet behind them.
“It would be odd if that were the case.” George tapped a mirrored panel at the back of the cabinet, and I watched in surprise as it popped open. “Just like my father, Hart leaves the wine out, but keeps the stronger stuff in here.”
“Unless he also keeps arsenic in there, I don’t see how that helps.”
George bent to search through the small opening. “No, nothing but spirits.” He backed away from the cabinet and leaned against the desk. “I suppose finding the rat poison was a bit of a long shot. Even an amateur wouldn’t be foolish enough to leave it here.”
I waved my hand at the cabinet. “We still have the decanter. What do we do with it?”
He blew out a breath. “Chances are there’s no poison in it, but I’ll take it to Woodrow, just the same. He might as well test it. While I’m in the village, I’ll speak to that police sergeant and pass along the information the first footman gave you. Perhaps I’ll be able to find out where he stands on the investigation.”
“Will you tell him about the other accidents as well?”
“I suppose I should, though I wish I had more to tell him.”
“Durant and Treadwell.” I tapped a finger against my lips. “And I’d been leaning toward Bradmore.”
George leaned back against the desk. “As was I.”
“He’s the perfect suspect save for one problem.”
“He wasn’t in this office when we drank our toast.”
I nodded. “He couldn’t have poisoned the sherry.”
“Since we don’t know for certain if the sherry was poisoned, I wouldn’t count him out just yet.”
“Then we should report our suspicions.”
George held up a hand. “I’ll report the accidents, but I’d rather know a little more about all our suspects before informing the police of our suspicions. You don’t know how they work out here. I don’t want them to arrest Leo’s friend or brother-in-law until we have more evidence.”
“How do we get more evidence?”
“We need to start questioning our suspects.”
“Then we must start tonight. I don’t like the idea of leaving Leo in danger. In fact, I think we should warn him. Then we’ll find out what we can this evening and call in the police tomorrow.”
“Agreed. And as I’ve invited Bradmore and a few other neighbors from the shoot to join us, we should have plenty of chances to make some inquiries.”
“In that case, I agree.” I laced my fingers with his. “This is all very unsettling. If Leo is the target, then one of our guests is a killer.”
“Or, Leo is not a target and these are all accidents.”
I let his comment stand, but for my part, I didn’t think there was anything accidental happening here.
* * *
Rose’s sniffles and sneezes increased throughout the day and by evening they were joined by a sore throat. I had to give her the bad news that she must stay in the nursery until her symptoms had passed. She required some convincing, and as a result I only joined the rest of our party as they processed into the dining room.
We had three extra guests to dinner this evening, in addition to Mr. Bradmore. The gentlemen had been shooting on a neighbor’s property earlier this week, a Mr. Easton. He and his wife were invited to dine with us, and as his brother-in-law, Mr. Kraft, was visiting, he joined us as well. Both gentlemen were in their mid-forties and avid sportsmen, so Mrs. Easton, left to her own devices for the past week, was delighted for the company. Without Charles, who remained in his room, we were eighteen to dinner. As we seated ourselves, Clara Kendrick cleared her throat as if preparing for an announcement.
“I suggest the ladies join the gentlemen for the last day of the shoot. That is, if they have a mind to do so.”
Every head turned in her direction. Some nodded eagerly, others smiled indulgently but shook their heads, probably thinking the poor girl had lost her mind. Still more stared in abject horror at the suggestion of a lady invading the men’s domain.
For my part, I was simply shocked the suggestion came from Clara. It was more in keeping with Anne’s inclinations for women and men to work side by side. Clara seemed far too fashionable to don shooting gear and boots to tromp through the fields.
My brother, seated across the table from me, grinned. “I’ve no objection, but neither do I feel I have any say in the matter.” He challenged George with a mischievous glint in his eye. “What say you, Hazelton? Are the ladies to accompany us on Friday?”
Before George could answer, Durant spoke up. “Ladies invading the field? Preposterous.”
“And why ever would you want to, Clara?” Eliza angled a glare at her sister. “Can you find nothing better to do with your time? Lady Fiona has gone to great lengths to keep us amused in the daytime hours, and the gentlemen join us in the evening. I say leave them to their own pastimes.”
“That may be your inclination, Mrs. Durant.” Treadwell tipped his head back and gazed down his nose at Eliza. “I for one would enjoy the company of the ladies as we trudge through the fields. Those who are brave enough to join us, that is.”
“It is more than just an inclination, Mr. Treadwell. It’s my belief that we should each keep to our own
places and enjoy our own pursuits. Ladies and gentlemen need not always be together.”
If they were, she would certainly have less time for the under-butler.
I glanced at Clara and noted a flush pinkened her cheeks. So that was it. The days were flying past, and she had not had enough time with the gentlemen. Was there one in particular who had sparked her interest? I hadn’t paid her much attention these past few days.
Much to my surprise, and Clara’s too, no doubt, Anne came to her defense. “As Clara said, it would be optional for the ladies. If a few of us have a mind to join the shoot, why shouldn’t we? Ladies are included in fox hunting, why not shooting?”
“Tally-ho, I say.” Alonzo beamed at Anne. “I would take up the challenge. Who’s with me?”
I suppressed a groan. Under the present circumstances, I would prefer that the shooting part of this house party cease altogether. Too many people carrying firearms for my liking. Of course, the Kendrick girls would pick this occasion to form a united front.
The room buzzed with voices both for and against the proposal. Finally George held up a hand. “We’ve had the fields to ourselves all week, gentlemen. None of us will shoot tomorrow, but if any ladies wish to join us Friday, I shall warmly welcome them.”
A few groans arose to mix with the cheers from a few ladies. “I’d love to join you,” Lottie said. “But only if Charles is recovered enough to shoot. He loves it so much, I’d feel terribly guilty going when he cannot.”
Though I wished for a speedy recovery for poor Charles, I had to hope he’d not feel up to shooting Friday. The thought of Lottie toting a shotgun was far too frightening. I was pulled from my thoughts when Percy Bradmore addressed me.
“What of you, Lady Harleigh? Will you join the men or stay at home?”
George had left the table arrangements to Fiona this evening. She seated me between Mr. Bradmore and Mr. Durant knowing I’d wished to speak to both men. There must be something deeply wrong with me to be grateful she’d placed me between two suspected killers. Since poison had been one of the weapons, I should keep a close watch on my plate.
“I’m not entirely certain, Mr. Bradmore. I’ve never done any sort of shooting before, and I should hate to be an obstruction.”
“You can partner with me, Franny.” Alonzo was still grinning. “I had no idea what I was doing as of yesterday. And today I am the great hunter. I’d be happy to take you in hand.”
“Ah, yes. I think he may have killed a bird or two today,” George said, his tone mocking, “while the rest of us had several braces.”
Alonzo turned to him in feigned outrage. “A bird or two? Don’t you believe him, dear sister. I’m sure I shot far more than he did.”
“Shot at them, more like.” From the head of the table, George looked past Bradmore to wink at me. “He missed far more than he hit. If you wish instruction, my lady, you should partner with me.”
“After you sully the family honor by questioning my skill?”
“Alonzo, don’t be nonsensical,” Mother said. “Frances has no interest in such masculine pursuits.”
Well, now I’d have to consider it.
Before I could respond, Fiona stood and raised her hands. Everyone left off the subject and turned their attention to her.
“As the gentlemen have been gone all day today, I believe they’ve had enough time to themselves, so I propose we all proceed to the drawing room together.” Everyone murmured their agreement. “I’ve had card tables set up in the drawing room and the carpets removed from the blue salon. After some tea, I think a spot of dancing is in order—or cards, for those of you who wish it.”
Fiona’s announcement met with agreement from all, particularly the younger people. In fact, no one lingered long over tea. My mother, Aunt Hetty, and both Mr. and Mrs. Durant preferred a game of bridge, and cards were procured for them, as they placed themselves at the table in the drawing room. Fiona threw wide the doors between the drawing room and the blue salon, and the rest of us made our way into the adjoining room. Mrs. Easton was called upon to take a seat at the piano. She opened the set with a lively polka, and the dancers paired off.
Much to my relief, Mr. Treadwell allowed Leo to lead Lily out to the impromptu dance floor and chose Clara Kendrick for his partner. Mr. Bradmore drew Lottie out to the floor where she immediately trod on his foot. As the dance had yet to begin, I feared he was in for a painful experience. Fiona and Nash joined the group, followed by Mr. Kraft and Anne. I turned to George expectantly, but rather than offer his hand he joined me on the sofa.
I tried not to look disappointed and failed.
“What is wrong?” he asked.
“Wrong? Why, nothing. I thought you might ask me to dance.”
He raised his brows. “Dancing with you would be lovely, but I was thinking of replacing your aunt at the card table.”
“You prefer to be at a card table with my mother than dancing with me?”
“Both the Durants are playing, and it would be a good opportunity to discuss his role in the Kendrick business, don’t you think?”
I saw my dance slipping away but had to admit it was a good idea. “What do you want me to do?”
“Find a way to speak with Treadwell and perhaps learn his thoughts about Kendrick and your sister. And if you can learn anything about Bradmore, I’ll be thoroughly impressed with your skill.”
“Divide and conquer, it is,” I agreed. “I’ll do my best.”
“As will I.” With that, he removed to the drawing room. Considering how much Hetty enjoyed bridge, I wouldn’t place a wager on his success in gaining her seat at the table. On the other hand, George could be quite convincing. Well, that was his challenge. I glanced around at the dancers in the blue salon. Mine was in here.
Mrs. Easton ended the polka in a resounding flourish, and the dancers gave her an enthusiastic round of applause. I fell in behind Treadwell and Clara as they ambled off to the side of the room. She whispered something into his ear, causing him to jerk away like a startled deer. What was that misguided child up to now? Treadwell seemed quite relieved to find me at his side.
“Such a lively dance,” Clara said, pulling him toward one of the love seats now arranged against the wall. “We should rest ourselves.”
Rather than accompany her, Treadwell released her hand. “If you are fatigued, Miss Kendrick, perhaps Lady Harleigh would like to dance.”
I couldn’t miss the look of disappointment on her face, but neither could I miss my chance to speak with the young man. I gave him my hand. “I’d be delighted, Mr. Treadwell.”
Mrs. Easton played a little trill of music, drawing our attention. “As there seems to be eight of you dancing, perhaps you’d like to form a quadrille for a gallop?”
The dancers met her suggestion with enthusiasm. For my part, I could have kissed her. A gallop was easily as energetic as a polka, which made it difficult to carry on a conversation. But as a quadrille, two pairs would dance in the center for several measures, while the other two stood aside, allowing for at least a bit of discussion.
Treadwell and I took our corner and waited while the first two couples danced. “Tell me, Treadwell, are you truly desirous of the ladies’ presence in the fields or did you simply wish to argue with Mrs. Durant? You seemed to be enjoying yourself.”
“I do enjoy an argument, Lady Harleigh, but I am always desirous of female companionship.” His gaze was focused at a spot over my shoulder where I was quite certain Lily and Leo danced. “Certain females more than others, of course.” His lips turned upward. “Sometimes a very specific one.”
Before I could ask whom he meant, I found myself in his arms, making our first round of the floor. I’d thought his flirtation with Lily was odd considering his long-standing friendship with her fiancé, but wearing that smile, the man looked positively predatory. Was he actively trying to win Lily’s affections away from his friend?
We returned to our corner and waited while Lily and Leo, and Alonzo
and Anne, danced through the center. I had done little to mask my thoughts, and he must have read the confusion in my expression, for when his gaze returned to mine, he gave me a mischievous grin. “You think I’m speaking of your sister.”
I drew back in surprise. “I certainly hope you are not speaking of her.”
“Would it be so terrible if I were?”
Off we went again in a circle, rather like this conversation, which was getting me nowhere. This time when we returned to our corner, it was our turn to chasse across the center. Treadwell guided me effortlessly into a step-hop before our reverse.
“Ho! Look at the two of you.” Nash, standing along the wall with Fiona, clapped his hands in time to the music. Indeed, Treadwell’s expertise made me a better dancer as well. We performed our last step-hop, and once again all of the couples danced around the floor.
When we returned once more to our corner, it took a moment for me to recall where we left off. “Lily and Leo are in love and about to be married,” I said. “Both their families approve of the match, and as his friend, I would hope you’d have nothing but good wishes for their happiness.”
A frown pulled at his lips as he considered my words. Was this man playing with me?
“I was under the impression your mother did not entirely agree with her daughter’s choice. That is to say . . .”
She didn’t! My stomach seemed to turn in on itself. “You and Mrs. Price spoke about this? Whatever did she tell you?”
Off we went again. Gad! Would this wretched dance never end?
Treadwell smiled indulgently as we moved around the perimeter and I missed several steps. My steady glare kept him talking. “Well, only what I just said. That in her opinion, things were not completely settled. If I could win Lily’s approval, I would have her mother’s.”
I dropped his hand as soon as we returned to our corner. “Truly? My mother approves of you, does she? And this on an acquaintance of one day’s standing.”
“Your brother seems to like me as well. In fact, you seem to be the only one whose good opinion I cannot win.” He glanced around. “Lady Harleigh, we ought to be dancing.”
A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Murder Page 17
