Robert had expected at least his wife would have argued the point with him.
“So, what is your plan or haven’t you gotten that far,” William uttered.
“Sir, knowing my husband he is thinking of charging headlong into the fight, even though he has no clue where that might be,” Kristina jested.
“Of course not, at least this time. William, you gave me the idea when you mentioned what you’ve set in motion, elevating Toby to the rank of viscount.”
A gasp from Kristina told Robert she’d not been made aware of the change in Toby’s status.
“Yes, m’ lady. Considering what he did for the Crown over the years and with the adjoining estate available I sent letters to powerful friends in London to set everything in motion. I feel confident he will be made the newest viscount. What’s more interesting, the land won’t be titled so he may will everything to Rose and Keith.”
“Starting tomorrow I thought we’d look in on the tenants to see if they have any needs. As Toby is confined to the castle we shouldn’t have any problems. While we are on the estate that will give us a chance to casually hunt down Albert,” Robert said, in explaining his plan.
“Husband, I’m aware that could be dangerous but will I be permitted to join you and William?”
“Certainly, under the condition you don’t get your habit dirty from playing with the little ones we meet.”
From the pout Kristina gave him, Robert knew or at least suspected she’d do as she wished. While on the estate he also wanted to look over the manor house and see what, if any, staff still worked there. He needed to examine the estate records and speak with the manager, again if there was one. For that he knew how to get an answer without leaving the castle. He rang for Glenn. In minutes the man stood in the doorway.
“M’ lords and lady?”
“Come in and have a seat. Her Ladyship and I have several questions for you,” Robert directed.
“Yes, m’ lord.”
Robert waited until Glenn was settled then offered him a whiskey, which was refused as he was still working.
“You see William, that’s one of the many attributes I’ve come to appreciate about Glenn,” Robert said.
“Then would you care to explain to William about the time you returned to the castle so far under the mahogany you couldn’t walk,” Kristina reminded her husband.
“We’d finished for the day and had cultivated a great thirst. However, all the details of that, not to mention the after effect would best be saved for a more relaxed time. Anyway, and more to the point. Do you know if the adjoining estate, the one now in the hands of the Crown, has an estate manager?”
“No, m’ lord. The man retired about a month after you returned south and between myself and Robbie we’ve been handling the books.”
“William, if you haven’t met the young man he’s Glenn’s oldest boy who has taken an interest in one of our maids, Julie.”
“I believe I have, but only from a distance when I saw two young people out for a stroll with Mrs. Fairbairn following discreetly behind.”
“Yes, that would be them.” Kristina added, “They were instructed they could be together but only with a chaperone.”
When Robert saw William nod that seemed he approved of the arrangement. He then peered over to Glenn.
“So, you would say Robbie is good with his letters and figures? To the point where he could, if things go as planned, take over the manager duties?” Robert asked.
“Yes and sometimes I believe he might be better than me, just don’t let him know that. Might I inquire why?”
“I will in a moment but first, does the manor still have staff?” Kristina uttered.
“It does, m’ lady. A butler, cook who handles all the kitchen duties along with two footmen and three maids. We make sure they are paid every month. For that Robbie looked back in the journals to see what their salaries were. As the land brings in a modest income, partly from the gold mine, I’m sure the staff are not receiving their due. Does that answer your question?”
“Then some. Now for the reason for this line of inquiry. As you are well aware, William is much more than he appears. Through his friends in London he is arranging for Toby to be elevated to viscount. As such, the adjoining estate will be given to him, untitled. We wished to learn what needs doing there so when he takes up the reins the transition will go smoothly,” Robert explained.
“I can tell you most of the farms and cottages are in good shape. Between Robbie and I we’ve done what we could to keep them up. The good news, none of them are in the shape of the ones you found here.”
“Tomorrow morning Robert, William and I will be starting to look them over. This way we’ll have an idea how much funding will be needed,” Kristina said.
With a glance to William, Robert saw a faint smile on the man’s lips and didn’t need to ask the reason. The duke was planning to take on the loan himself, with excellent terms.
“Thank you Glenn, you’ve been very helpful. Of course, everything we discussed is to remain between the four of us,” Robert directed.
“Yes, m’ lord. I understand. If Toby asks where you went, I’ll tell him you’ve gone to inspect some of your farms. Now, if you’ll excuse me I’ve some reports to write for your man of business.”
Robert watched Glenn leave then turned to William.
“I thought we’d leave after breakfast and try to be back by luncheon. This way we can decide on which structures are in the most need and focus our attention on them.”
“And what the individual families require in the way of clothing or medicine. Now if you’ll excuse me I wish to rest before dressing for dinner,” Kristina added.
“Certainly, my dear,” Robert said, giving her a lustful leer.
“Oh, and in my suite. I’ll instruct Amanda not to let you in, under no circumstances save the castle is on fire,” she stated.
Knowing the battle was lost, there was still the war. Tonight he’d declare a truce. Robert stood then helped Kristina to her feet.
“I also need to retire to my suite. I have to write reports concerning what occurred today. I’ll be taking them with me when I return south so don’t worry about having them sent.”
“We’ll meet in the countess’ parlor a little before seven of the clock,” Robert said.
“That will be perfect. I also wish to look in on Toby to see how he’s doing,” William answered then marched out of the office.
Now alone Robert picked up the book on Scotland’s history which he’d started on his last visit. Propping his feet on the low table in front of him he started to read from where he left off.
Chapter Sixteen
Ten days later, seated around the luncheon table with Kristina to his right and William with Toby, who now only needed a cane to walk. Robert looked up as Hamish entered. In the man’s hand was a thick packet.
“M’ lord, this just arrived, but it seems to have been sent to the wrong household,” Hamish said.
“And why is that.”
“Because it’s addressed to William, The Duke of Clarion.”
“That’s because you know that William Atkinson is the duke. Now hand the pack over to him,” Robert demanded.
Of course the entire staff of the castle was aware of the true identity of William but had kept the fact to themselves, until now when Robert made the declaration. To that end Robert watched William reach into his jacket pocket, withdraw the ducal ring and slip it on his right ring finger.
“Hamish, instruct the staff of his title and how he’s to be addressed.”
“Yes, m’ lord, Your Grace.”
He waited while the package was handed over to the duke and used a table knife to break the seal then quickly read the sheets of vellum.
“Your Grace, is it the news we were hoping for?” Robert asked.
“Yes. Everything, including the land which is untitled,” William declared.
Glancing over to Toby, Robert noticed the man’s brow furro
w but was afraid to say anything so he did.
“Hamish, also inform the staff that from this moment forward Toby is to be referred to as either Lord Anthony or Viscount Underwood. Shortly, he will be taking up residence in the adjoining estate’s manor house.”
“But-but…I don’t understand. Why? How?” Toby sputtered out.
“Might I suggest we finish eating then retire to my parlor? There we can have His Grace explain. I’m sure Lord Anthony you’ll find the reasons interesting,” Kristina declared.
Robert glanced to the others and liked that they’d taken her suggestion. One question which hadn’t been asked, by Kristina or Toby had to do with Rose. What would become of her? And Keith?
Everyone rushed through the meal. As they rose, and with Kristina on his arm, he led William and Toby to her parlor. No sooner had she settled herself on the settee, with Robert beside her, did she wait for William to continue.
“Thank you, m’ lord, but before we continue, as you all know me as William when staff isn’t around let’s continue with that name for me. Anyway, Toby, as you need your own place to live, where finally you can put down roots and the adjoining estate is without a peer I petitioned powerful friends of mine in London to have it passed to you along with the title of viscount.”
“Again, William, why? I haven’t done anything worthy of the rank?”
“Only over eighteen years on the continent spying on the French while hunting down traitors. Even leaving your wife who was with child certainly qualified you for this reward. As for Rose, she will now be referred to as Lady Rose Underwood.”
Robert studied Toby’s reaction to this news and wasn’t surprised when the man slumped back in his chair. Finally.
“M’ lady, does this mean she’ll have to leave your service?” Toby inquired.
“Unfortunately, yes. But, I’ve already spoken with your cook and Rose is welcome to help out with the baking. However, she will also have other duties such as running the new household. Then there are the tenant calls. That’s just a few of her new tasks.”
“As for Keith, on marrying Rose he will then go by Mr. Moore. Before you ask he also knows and has no plans of withdrawing his offer for your daughter. For helping to manage your estate Robbie, Glenn’s oldest, will be assisting you. He’s very good with the figures,” Robert explained to Toby.
“When would you recommend we take up our new residence?” Toby said.
“First, we need to apprehend Albert. We were hoping he’d come to us but that doesn’t seem so now. However, I do have an idea which might. As you will be using the same village as here we have the local paper make the announcement of your new title and that on Sunday next Keith and Rose will marry in the church,” Robert explained.
“If anything that would force his hand and he could make a stupid mistake,” William added.
Robert wondered how the girl would take to her new life. No longer spending endless hours making breads, pastries and the like. He’d leave that up to his wife.
“Excuse this interruption but Lady Rose demands an audience,” Hamish said.
Hearing a squeak, Robert suspected Rose was just out of eyesight and possibly not a very happy lady.
“Please show her in,” Robert directed.
“Yes, m’ lord.”
Standing Robert, waved Toby back down to his chair.
“Your Grace, m’ lords and lady, Lady Rose,” Hamish announced.
Robert watched as Rose stormed in only to realize who she was standing in front of.
“Please accept my apologies, but can someone explain why I’ve been banned from my duties in the kitchen and my friends now call me m’ lady or Lady Rose?” she said.
“Your Grace, m’ lords, I do believe that would be best if I discussed Rose’s questions without you here. Why don’t you all do what you do best, drink whiskey or brandy,” Kristina ordered.
Considering the glare his wife laid on him Robert knew retreat was in order.
“Your Grace, Lord Anthony, might I suggest we repair to my office? This way the ladies may talk about us, in particular me and my purloining baked goods while everyone is asleep.”
“And not sharing them with your wife.”
Taking that as his cue to depart, quickly, Robert waved William and Toby ahead of him and followed them down the hall to his office. Entering he went to the desk, sat, and retrieved two sheets of foolscap. He waited for them to get comfortable on chairs in front of him.
“In anticipation of the change in your station, I took the liberty to write this up. It will be inserted on the front page of the paper and word should reach Albert thus forcing his hand to act.” Robert handed the sheet over to Toby.
Viscount Anthony Underwood is pleased to announce the marriage of his daughter, Lady Rose, to Keith Moore. The wedding will take place at the Tynburm Church this coming Sunday.
“Yes, that should work,” Toby said, then handed the paper over to William.
After a moment of silence Robert saw the duke nod his approval also.
“As you both agree I’ll have a groom take the announcement into the village straightaway. Along with these instructions to have it out tomorrow,” Robert stated, holding up a second sheet.
Robert rang for Hamish and when the butler arrived was handed the two sheets of paper, now folded and sealed.
“Have Seamus send a groom to the village printer with these.”
“Yes, m’ lord.”
With that task done Robert turned to Toby. “Sir, as we have plenty of time before dressing for dinner why don’t you take an hour or so to start reviewing your books with Robbie. If I’m not mistaken, you’ll find him in my estate office.”
“Thank you. I would like to see what is involved. I know you have a man of business who handles most things. Have I one also?”
“You do. It’s the same gentleman I use. You’ll need to send a letter informing him you’re taking over as viscount. Robbie has the man’s direction.”
“Then, Your Grace, m’ lord I shall see you in the countess’ parlor a little before seven,” Toby said and left.
Standing, Robert opened his mouth to speak when a scream sounded. Rushing over to the window, he saw Albert with Rose slung over his shoulder, racing toward the back of the garden. Kristina was on the terrace. Even from this distance, Robert could see fear on his wife’s face.
“Nevin has Rose,” Robert called back over his shoulder as he rushed out of the office.
Pounding footsteps from behind told him William was close on his heels. Knowing the quickest way to the veranda, the servant stairs he took them two at a time. Arriving at the door to the terrace he grabbed Kristina into his arms as tears rolled down her cheeks.
Patiently, Robert waited until Kristina composed herself a little. “Are you hurt? I saw what happened.”
“No, I’m not. Then you know Albert grabbed up Rose before we could get away. He said to take the baby to the little cottage and we have an hour to do as he demands or he’ll kill her.”
“I’m glad you’re safe but why didn’t you have at least a footman with you?”
“We did, Seth. Albert knocked him out and that’s how we knew something was wrong. He must still be out there, unconscious or worse.”
“I’ll go look for him,” William announced, then raced down the steps.
Robert took Kristina into the castle, where they were immediately met by Mrs. Fairbairn and Hamish. Robert relayed to them what his wife had said.
“What are we to do?” the housekeeper asked.
“We have to inform the viscount. He should be in the estate office with Robbie. Have him brought to the viscountess’ parlor,” Robert directed. “Also, His Grace is looking for Seth.”
“I’ll send a few footmen out to help in the search and aid His Grace in bringing Seth back, then tell His Lordship of your wish,” Hamish uttered, then left to fulfil his tasks.
“Mrs. Fairbairn, I need you to come with me as I’ve an idea on how we can save the b
aby and rescue Rose,” Kristina ordered.
“While you do that I’ll go to the stable and have Keith join us. As he’s to be Rose’s husband in a few days he should also be made aware of what happened,” Robert stated.
Robert guided Kristina to the stairs. While she and the housekeeper were climbing them he turned and went to the barn. He found the young man at Julius’s stall.
“Something’s happened and I need you to come with me. Everything will be explained,” Robert ordered, hoping Keith wouldn’t question him.
“Yes, m’ lord.”
With the young man at his side, Robert marched back to the castle and up to Kristina’s parlor. Stepping in he was happy she was already sitting on her settee, a wrapped doll resting on her lap.
“Have a seat Keith, we’re only waiting for Toby and His Grace.”
“No, we’re both here,” William announced leading Toby in.
Robert waited until they were seated.
“Toby, Keith. Rose has been grabbed up by Albert and demands the baby or he will kill her,” Robert quickly said.
Gasps of shock from Toby and Keith came as no surprise to Robert. Before they said anything he had to reassure them Rose would be returned safely.
“Lady Kristina and I have a plan. To make it work, Toby, since you still can’t move fast, will need to stay here. Keith, as you are familiar with the little cottage you have to approach from the back. You’ll have His Grace with you. Lady Kristina and I will come up the path holding the baby. Actually, she will since it would be more natural. When he comes out, hopefully leaving Rose in the cottage, Keith you rush in to rescue her and take her out the back. Your Grace, you continue forward to grab Albert while we have him distracted,” Robert explained.
“Does anyone have a question. If not Your Grace and Keith you must get going as you’ll have the longest trek,” Kristina stated.
Happy no one did. Robert waited until William and Keith were on their way. He knew it would take them a good thirty minutes to get into position, while he and Kristina needed half that time. With a glance to the clock over the mantle he carefully marked the time then turned back to his wife and Toby.
A Highland Romance (Markson Regency Mystery Book 5) Page 9
