“Yes, that will work. I would suggest you pull your cap down a little more to help cover your visage in case we find Toby there,” Robert uttered.
Once the hat was protecting William’s face from any onlookers, Robert nodded to Kristina and together they set out at a trot. When the building came into full view he and Kristina slowed to a walk. Riding by the cottage Robert glanced over to his wife which gave him the opportunity to look in through the windows.
A movement inside caught his attention. Focusing more closely he watched and waited until he saw it again. This time he was able to get an excellent look at the person and the hair which gave the man away—pitch black. He smiled to himself.
“Kristina, Toby is in there,” he said softly.
“Then, dear husband, I say we ride right up to the door. If memory serves, that is the only way in or out save a window on the opposite side of the main room.”
“If you don’t mind, I’ll go around to the back in case he tries to bolt that way,” William told them.
“Go and be quick, sir, as he might escape,” Robert ordered. Only to realize what he’d done, given a command to a duke.
Giving William a minute to get to the back of the cottage, Robert nodded to Kristina. Together they rode up, stopping several yards from the front door.
“Toby Underwood, I am Robert, Viscount of Hampshire, and beside me is my wife, Lady Kristina. We know you’re innocent of killing Harold and the other men several months ago. We also are aware you’ve returned here to seek justice for what either Albert or Sam Nevin did to your daughter, getting her with child. Who, by the by has a lovely, healthy daughter. All we ask is you come out so we can talk and help with finding the man or men responsible,” Robert called out.
Barely had the last words passed over Robert’s lips then he watched the door slowly open a crack and Toby look out.
“Please, come out. As my husband said, we mean you no harm and also wish to reunite you with your daughter and granddaughter,” Kristina pleaded.
Robert held his breath, or so it seemed, as the door swung wider and Toby stepped out into the sunlight.
“M’ lord and lady, please forgive my past behavior. And yes, I do remember seeing you both in London as you were going to the Mrs Marlowe's Book Emporium and Tea Shop,” Toby uttered.
“Yes, I remember that day very well,” Robert replied.
“May I ask you this, my daughter. What is she called?” Toby inquired.
“She goes by Rose, as in the flower and is just as beautiful. She’ll be getting married soon to a very trustworthy young man. I’m sure she is also very desirous to finally meet her father,” Robert declared.
Just then William rode around the corner of the cottage and brought his horse to a halt. Who spoke first caught Robert by surprise.
“Your Grace, I didn’t expect to see you this far north. I’m guessing you came to find me as you didn’t trust any of the other agents?”
“On that Toby, you’re correct. Also, I came to put an end to the senseless murders which have plagued the district for the past few months. Now, return with us to the viscount’s castle and meet your daughter, whom I must say is a highly skilled baker.”
Robert watched and waited while Toby rubbed his chin, mulling over his decision.
“Lord Robert, if you’ll allow me to get my horse saddled I will gladly accompany you, your wife and Your Grace back to your home. Granted my ride isn’t as magnificent as I see before me but the old horse does get me from point to point.”
“Toby, or would you prefer Mr. Underwood?”
“No, m’ lady, Toby is fine as I’m not a gentleman, except when I portray one when necessary.”
“Do you have clothing and such you wish to bring with you?” Kristina inquired.
“I have a few shirts, another pair of trousers and my shaving equipment. They all fit nicely into a satchel which I can carry over my shoulder,” Toby answered.
“Why don’t you collect them while I saddle your horse?” William declared, then dismounted and passed the reins to Robert.
“Your Grace, are you sure? I can take care of that,” Toby countered.
“Yes, I’m positive. I do believe I know how to tack up a horse. Also, once we return to the castle and as I’m not wearing the ducal ring please call me either William or Mr. Atkinson. Whichever you’re more comfortable with?”
Once William disappeared into the barn and Toby returned inside the cottage to gather up his things Robert turned to his wife.
“Kristina, if the state of his clothes is what he’s wearing I need to make sure he is properly attired as a country gentleman should be. Don’t you agree?”
“Most assuredly and before he and Rose meet. Might I suggest, at the fork in the road leading to the village you take him to the tailor. William can escort me back to the castle,” Kristina said.
“Yes. Have Mrs. Fairbairn open the suite next to William’s and arrange for hot water so Toby can bathe,” Robert uttered.
“I will.”
Robert started to lean over, with the intention of giving Kristina a kiss, when William led an old horse up to them.
“We’ll have to find him a better mount once Seamus has evaluated Toby’s riding skills,” Robert declared.
“M’ lord, I can sit to a canter but only marginally. That’s why this gelding is perfect for me. And, before you ask, I’m happy with how I ride.”
“Very well then, but we will have to find you a mount that isn’t showing its age,” Robert declared.
“As you wish, m’ lord.”
With that settled Robert waited until Toby and William climbed onto their respective horses then with Kristina beside him started back to the main road leading to the castle. At the fork, Robert brought everyone to a halt. Turning in his saddle he explained what he planned. “And Toby, I’ll brook no argument from you,” Robert ordered.
“No, m’ lord. I’ll accept your decision.”
While making their way to the village, Robert filled Toby in on what they’d learned so far in regards to the murders.
“As it stands now, we also have no idea who assaulted her. My guess it was one of the Nevin twins. The only problem, we have no evidence either did that. From what we, Kristina and I, have learned neither of the boys have red hair, which the baby has.”
“But Rose’s mother did,” Toby declared.
Even with this new piece of information the hunt for the person who attacked Rose wasn’t getting any closer to finding the man.
At the tailor’s Robert waved two young boys over.
“I’ve got a copper for each of you for holding our horses. We’re going to the tailor then the cobbler. We shouldn’t be more than an hour,” Robert directed to the youngsters.
“Of course, m’ lord,” the older one said.
With the reins from both mounts handed over, Robert led Toby into the tailor.
“Good morning, m’ lord. What can I do for you?” the tailor said.
“Mr. Watson, Toby Underwood needs all new attire as you can plainly see. Besides jackets and riding breeches he’ll need evening wear also.”
“Shirts and cravats, I presume?”
“Yes. Now, would you have anything ready that we can take or if it needs adjusting be delivered today?” Robert asked.
“I believe so, but from the looks of Mr. Underwood the trousers will need to be taken in. I can have them ready later and brought to the castle. As for the jacket, I’ve one which should fit perfectly.”
Toby hadn’t said a word. Could this be he wasn’t sure how to ask for what was needed, or scared. Glancing over to him Robert got his answer. The poor man had a look of fear in his eyes. This he’d have to inquire about, but later.
“Toby go with Mr. Watson so he can see where the alterations need to be made,” Robert directed.
“Yes, m’ lord.”
Robert relaxed in a leather covered chair and waited for Toby to return. Fortunately, he didn’t have long.
&
nbsp; “M’ lord, Mr. Watson says he will have a jacket, trousers along with a shirt and cravat ready for me by mid-afternoon,” Toby announced.
“I see, m’ lord, you’ve also selected materials.”
“Yes. Unlike ladies we only need to dress once for the day and then for the evening while they are always changing their dresses,” Robert stated, earning a groan from Toby.
“At least my late wife was a simple lady who was happy with wearing the same dress from morning to night,” Toby declared.
After visiting the cobbler, who promised a set of riding boots along with shoes would be sent in the morning Robert and Toby climbed onto their horses and started back to the castle.
Chapter Thirteen
Kristina handed off Daisy’s reins to Seamus.
“Sir, she’s as pleasant to ride as I remember. I should warn you, when His Lordship and I return south she might be accompanying us.”
“Thank you, m’ lady, for the warning. I shall have to then keep a close eye over her. Then, there’s Lord Robert’s beast, Julius. He might not appreciate having his lady love vanish,” Seamus teased.
Stepping through the front portico Kristina was met by Hamish who had a puzzled expression.
“His Lordship and another will be returning by luncheon, which we’ll have on trays in my sitting room. After I change please have Mrs. Fairbairn meet me in my parlor,” Kristina directed.
“Yes, m’ lady.”
With William at her side they climbed the stairs to the second floor. Once there she swept down to her suite.
Walking into her room Kristina was met by Amanda who was wearing a suspicious smile. This immediately put Kristina on alert as her maid rarely ever showed emotion, especially when near Robert’s valet.
“Help me out of my habit. While you’re doing that you can explain why you’re in such a good mood. And don’t tell me Evan has disappeared, never to be seen or heard from again.”
“Yes, m’ lady. But first, which day dress do you wish to wear?”
“The blue one,” Kristina said, turning so Amanda could undo the tiny buttons down the back.
“As you know, Evan and I seem to be constantly at odds with each other. Well, it turns out we both have, even because of that, developed certain affection for one another. When His Lordship returns, which we’d both hoped had been with you, Evan will be approaching Lord Robert for permission to wed me.”
As she and her husband had already, in private, discussed the possibility of the two marrying she already knew what his answer would be. However, Kristina wasn’t about to tell her maid. Then she realized this trip to Scotland was one of the best excursions anywhere they’d taken.
Rose and Keith would soon marry thus giving baby Kristina a father. Add to that, Rose would finally meet the father she never knew.
Freed from her riding habit Kristina swept to her private room and took care of her needs. With a freshly wash face and hands she returned and was helped into the day dress. Next, she took a seat at the dressing table so Amanda could redo her hair.
“Let’s keep it simple for the rest of the day. Mayhap a chignon then tonight something more formal as we’ve another gentleman who will be staying with us,” Kristina stated.
“Yes, m’ lady, and I’ll see what flowers are available to decorate your hair with.”
“If you can find a few thistles, that might be nice. Just make sure the prickles are removed.”
“Of course, m’ lady, and I know where I might be able to find some. And before you say anything, I’ll take Evan along for protection.”
“Fine but who will guard you from him or he you? I would suggest Rose.”
“My thoughts exactly. Now, there you are.”
Kristina stood, then made her way to her parlor. No sooner had she gotten comfortable on the settee and started to read when her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Looking up she saw Mrs. Fairbairn.
“Please, come in. This will only take a moment.”
“Yes, m’ lady. What may I do for you?”
“It seems we will be having another gentleman guest staying with us for a while. Have the suite next to Mr. Atkinson opened.”
“Don’t you mean His Grace? Yes, we all are aware of who he is but fear not, none of us will do or say anything incorrectly.”
Kristina didn’t even want to know how they knew who William was. As long as they didn’t bow or refer to him by his title until told to.
“Also, shortly Amanda will be out hunting down a few thistles to decorate my hair. She’ll be taking Evan for protection, but I would feel better if Rose went along, as a chaperone so to speak.”
“I agree as there’s a rumor, not that I listen to or spread them, Evan will be approaching His Lordship asking for permission to marry your lady’s maid.”
Why wasn’t Kristina surprised this little piece of information would be known above and below stairs? This made her wonder how quickly word would get to Rose that her long, lost father was in the castle. If she was to guess, minutes after the man stepped across the threshold. She had to put a stop to the name or relationship of the guest to Rose. Not until they were introduced.
“Mrs. Fairbairn, the gentleman who will be staying here prefers his solitude but will take dinners with us. Other than that, he’s not to be disturbed until either Lord Robert or I say so.”
“As you wish, m’ lady.”
Kristina dismissed the housekeeper, then started to return to her book when she heard William speaking with Hamish from the hall. From what she could make out, the exchange involved sending a post to his ducal estate. Of course William didn’t mention that. Moments later he stepped into the parlor.
“I’m not disturbing you, am I, m’ lady?”
“No, not at all. Please come in and have a seat.”
Kristina was happy she’d not stretched out on the settee as it would have been undignified, especially in the presence of a duke. She waited while he took the chair across from her.
“I hope you nor Lord Robert don’t mind, but I need to send several highly important posts to my estate. From there the duchess will make sure they are delivered to the appropriate individuals.”
“I’m not sure what the butler said, by carriage that could take up to ten days. When Robert returns you can ask him to borrow two grooms. That way it should only be five days, six at the worse,” Kristina suggested.
“Thank you and if I’m not mistaken don’t I hear horses galloping into the courtyard?” William declared.
This was unusual. Robert wouldn’t be racing up to the castle unless something was wrong. Standing, which brought William to his feet, she quickly and very unladylike made her way down and to the front door. There she saw William was correct as Robert, with Toby’s arms around her husband’s waist, came to a halt at the stairs.
Kristina didn’t need to ask what happened as she saw a thin trickle of blood oozing from a wound on Toby’s right leg.
“Help Toby while I get Hamish and several footmen to carry him to the suite, which should be ready,” Kristina directed to William.
“Yes.”
Kristina turned and started to re-enter the castle when the butler appeared, behind him two large footmen.
“Help William carry Toby to the suite next to his. I’ll find…”
“M’ lady, the suite is ready and Cook is heating water. One of the maids is getting clean sheets to wash, dry and bandage the wound,” Mrs. Fairbairn told Kristina.
“Thank you.”
Knowing that she’d most likely be in the way Kristina started for the stairs, then detoured to the kitchen. Right now, more than ever, she knew a cup of tea and whatever pastry Rose had was needed. Stepping into the kitchen Kristina smirked at the buzz of activity going on. Between working on preparing luncheon for her and the others she saw several starting to put together the evening meal. Glancing over to the bakery, Kristina slipped in. What made her happy, no one had realized she’d entered the kitchen.
&nbs
p; “Good morning, Rose. I wonder if I might be allowed to partake of one of your sweet rolls or tarts,” Kristina said, startling the girl.
“Oh, m’ lady. I’m sorry I didn’t see or hear you enter. I’m a little tired today as baby Kristina had a hard night with sleeping.”
“Think nothing of it. Let me guess your baby developed a bit of croup.”
“Yes, m’ lady. Even Keith wasn’t able to calm her. It took some magic potion from Cook to get her to breathe easier.”
“Good. But before we continue let’s get a cup of tea and I see you made some apple tarts.”
“I did and they only now came from the oven. May I ask you, why all the rushing around. Did His Lordship or one of the staff get hurt?”
“No, no. Nothing like that. Why don’t you get plates and serve up the tarts while I hunt down a pot of tea,” Kristina recommended.
Carefully, Kristina made her way around the kitchen, collecting a pot, put tea in it then boiling water. With that done she grabbed two mugs and returned to the bakery. There she saw Rose had selected a sweet roll and tart and placed them on plates.
“Rose, why don’t we slip into the staff dining area and enjoy a late morning repast.”
Settled in a hard seated chair across from Rose, Kristina poured tea into the mugs then slid one over to the girl. When she’d changed her mind and not gone to hide out in her parlor but here to tell Rose about her father, for her that had been an easy decision. Even though Toby’s wound wasn’t serious if not properly cared for it could end up being life threatening. To this Rose needed to meet her father, albeit, for the first time and with him hurt.
Taking a sip of tea, she glanced over to the poor girl, obviously nervous at being in the presence of Kristina. Before she could continue she had to get the girl to relax.
“My dear, you seem to be worried about something. Pray tell, would you care to share your concern with me?”
“Thank you, m’ lady. It’s the baby. I’m afraid she could have another difficult night breathing which will mean I won’t get much sleep.”
“Then I have the perfect solution to your problem. I’ll speak with the nannies and have them watch over baby Kristina, in the nursery. That way you won’t need to worry about her. Also, if there’s a problem they will let me know. Is that satisfactory?”
A Highland Romance (Markson Regency Mystery Book 5) Page 7
