Counterfeit.
Was it possible the threat had to do with this? She picked up the original one. Turning it over in her hands, she carefully studied it. The handwriting wasfrom a well-educated gentleman. The paper, or rather parchment, was expensive but without any watermark to indicate the maker. That fact she did find unusual. To the best of her knowledge, all manufacturers would use one so their quality would be learned by others. The other thing which she couldn’t understand was its size. It was familiar, but she couldn’t remember from where.
Jolene next turned her attention back to the note regarding Brendon. She then thought back the second one. Considering what she’d learned from her mother, in private, things were slowly making sense. Over her shoulder, she glanced to the clock on the mantel and smiled. He would be here shortly but first, she needed to speak with her mother.
“Emmy, I need to speak with the countess. Meet me in the foyer with my bonnet and parasol.”
“Yes, m’ lady.”
Standing, she collected the three sheets of paper, resettled her shawl over her shoulders, then swept out and down to the countesses parlor. At the door, she peered in then knocked.
“Come in, my dear.”
“Thank you,Mother for seeing me unannounced, but I’ve a few questions and little time.”
“I’m guessing they have to do with what you are carrying?”
“On that, you are correct. This one, from last night,” Jolene handed it over. “Has me confused about the size of the paper. I’ve seen it someplace before, but I am unable recall where. Is it familiar to you?”
“I believe so.”
Jolene waited while her mother went to the writing desk, opened a drawer, and brought out something, then returned to the settee. She saw what her mother had collected. A five-pound note. She took both and laid one on top of the other.
“It is a perfect fit. With that, now, this one I understand.” She showed the one-word note to her mother.
“If I understand where you are going with this, you believe someone is printing counterfeit notes?”
“I do. The only question is who. The why is simple, to create havoc with the economy. But, and here is where that line of thought doesn’t make sense. We are not at war with anyone, so why would someone wish to do that?”
“During the three years your father and I hunted murderers and traitors, we never came across anything like this before. As you said, we are currently at peace.So,what if people wanted it for another reason?One which you will only learn when you find the person or persons making them.”
“Thank you, I believe. Now to this one.” She showed her mother the one regarding Brendon.
“You were having him followed,” Kristina uttered. “Why?”
“Yes. Up until last eve at the Stuart ball his behavior had been predictable. We’d share a dance, he’d return me to your side then disappear only to return for the next. Last night though, he stayed, standing behind me almost in a protective manner. Then, to make everything even more confusing, he offered to join us in the park today.”
“I understand what you mean. Don’t forget your father and I saw him coming from the jeweler’s earlier. What he told us, I’m not sure I believe or not.”
“That also has mecurious as well. As we will be attending the same ball tonight, and to find out what his intentions are, shall we invite him to dine with us? I’m sure Eustace will be enjoying dinner with Lady Sarah and her parents.”
“Of that, I assure you he is. Your brother informed me a little while ago that he wouldn’t be here but there for dinner. I do like your reasoning behind inviting him. When he arrives, I will request he join us at seven of the clock.”
“Thank you,Mother. He should be here soon. Shall we go down to meet him?”
At her mother’s side and with Robert following, Jolene went to the foyer, arriving as Brendon’s landau rolled into the courtyard. While she set her bonnet on, Jolene overheard her mother inform her father of their impending dinner guest.
“Very good, and, dearest daughter, I agree with your reasoning. However, having him spied on, I’m not so sure about. Just be careful,” he replied.
“I will. While we’re out, Mother,will you explain toFather my thoughts about the case?I’m also going to wish to speak with Vikki again, which I’ll arrange later upon my return.”
When the coach came to a halt, Jolene, with Eustace and her parents, went to greet Brendon and request he join them for dinner. Much to her happiness, he readilyagreed.
On the drive to collect Lady Sarah then to Hyde Park, Jolene guided the conversation to the Grayson ball that evening. She made sure Brendon was aware he would have two waltzes, with the possibility of a third. Her brother protested.
“No, you may partner with Lady Sarah twice as I’ve Mother’s consent.”
“Then, mayhap, Lady Jolene, I might prevail upon mine for the same permission,” Sarah uttered.
From what Jolene knew of the countess, strict and always insistent on proper manners, she didn’t believe that was going to occur.
At the park, she let Brendon hand her down then set her parasol properly to protect her face and shoulders from the sun. With her brother and Sarah leading, Jolene settled her hand on Brendon’s forearm. As they made their way around to different groups of friends, she made sure Eustace was on his best behavior. Since this was his first year to be in the ton and already having set his eye on a lady, the last thing needed was for him to soil the Markson name.
Another thing, from habit of working on several different cases, she did was to glance around for any dangers. Especially, considering the note she’d received last night. She was happy when they returned to the landau, took Sarah to her parents’,and then went on to her townhouse.
Helped down by Brendon, she let him escort her to the open front door to be met by her parents. Jolene wasn’t surprised when Eustace slipped past them, she supposed to return to his suite and rest. That was her plan as well, but considering the stare from her father she was curious if that was going to occur. After saying good bye to Brendon, she waited for him to depart then followed her parents.
In the office, she took a seat beside her mother, still uncomfortable about the glare she was getting from her father.
“Jolene, are you sure about the counterfeiting?”
“Yes. At least that is the only thing I am considering the size of the note matching a five pound. Do you have any idea why someone would wish to make them?”
“I might but not who is making them. Remember when the butler gave you the letter and was questioned about the person who brought it?”
“Yes, the footman didn’t recognize the colors on the man’s uniform and said he spoke with an unrecognized accent. Why?”
“I already took the liberty of sending Lord Stuart a note to inquire more about this unknown delivery person. Something tells me the person who wrote the note is foreign. Hopefully, soon we’ll learn from where.”
“Thank you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to send a note then rest.”
“You may. Have you chosen agown for this eve?”
“I was planning on wearing the new one.”
“Perfect, as it will cause a certain gentleman to become tongue-tied, which will be interesting,” Kristina uttered.
Jolene giggled, curtsied, then swept up to her suite where she was met by Emmy.
“Good, you’re here. While I rest, I need you to deliver a note for me.”
“Certainly, m’ lady. Is it to your special friend?”
“It is.”
Taking a seat at the desk, Jolene penned the note.
Vikki,
I need to speak with Julie Patrick. Several facts have come up, and I need to learn what she knows about them.
Also, I’d like to have Met Officer Thomas Spencer along. I was able to convince him of her innocence. He has promised me that his attempts to find her will be weak, just enough to keep his superiors happy.
Sincerely,
/>
Jolene
Sanding, she folded the note, andthen using a plain, unmarked stamp applied sealing wax. Handing it to Emmy, she stepped over to the bed, set her hands on her hips, and gave a low growl. Unfortunately, it didn’t work. Samson didn’t even bother lifting his head, but did raise an eye lid.
“What am I going to do with you?”
“Love him as you always do,” Emmy said.
“You’re correct. Help me out of my gown. I suppose I’ll have to read in a chair, even though it will still put me to sleep.”
“Yes, m’ lady. The ball gown for tonight? The new one you brought home today?”
“Yes.”
Settled on a chair with her legs curled up under her, Jolene gave her brat a final glare as Emmy left on her errand, then she picked up a book and started reading. As she’d predicted, in minutes her lids closed only to have them opened from a bump on her hand from Samson. With the bed now free from a pile of walking fur, Jolene went over and crawled under the covers.
Something cold and wet on her nose woke Jolene. Two eyes smiledback at her.
“Do you mind if I get up?”
“Woof. Woof.”
“Thank you, I’ll take that as a yes.”
She waited while he stepped back then tossed off the covers as a smiling Emmy walked in carefully carrying the selected gown.
Yes, tonight is going to be one to remember.
Chapter Nine
Nervous about the events of theeve, Brendon climbed out of his carriage then marched up the steps to the Hampshiretownhouse. He wasn’t surprised when the solid oak door opened before he even reached it. He patted over his jacket pocket, for at least the fifth time, then secretly smiled.
“Marquis of Lange, I’m expected.”
“Yes, m’ lord. If you’ll follow me,” Bing said.
As he marched down the hall to the countesses parlor, the few butterflies in his stomach suddenly became a thousand. Or so it seemed. At the door, while waiting to be introduced, the number increased. He was announced. Taking in a breath, he crossed the threshold.
He bowed.
He straightened.
He didn’t see Jolene.
Brendon felt the blood drain from his face. A hand grabbed him. A chuckle, then words.
“It would appear a certain marquis is a little nervous, my dear wife.”
“I do believe you are correct, Robert. It should be highly interesting when Jolene enters. Do you believe he should be seated?” the countess jested.
“M’ lord and lady, tease me all you wish. You should be aware this is the first time I’ve been invited to dine with a peer, other than the duke and duchess, except to even out the numbers. Helping Lady Jolene with her cases is different than now.”
“If I may inquire, how is it dissimilar?” Robert said.
“Then, I was there for her safety. Tonight, I wish to show her that not only am I a worthy gentleman to someday ask for her hand, but also that I’ve changed my wild ways.”
“That is very noble of you, m’ lord. I firmly believe you will achieve your goal,” Kristina uttered.
“Thank you, m’ lady, for your confidence in me.”
He glanced to the door in the hopes Jolene had listened to at least a few of his words. She wasn’t there. Then-
Brendon felt the air ripped from his chest on setting his sights on the beauty before him. She had chosen to astound him in a red ball gown with little green leaves sewn around the bodice which was cut slightly lower than he’d ever seen on her before. He suspected her mother had approved of it. Then the way it fit her, to perfection and to entice him, not other gentlemen.Arose was set between her breasts. From the hips down, the gown flared out ending in a train which gave the impression of her floating.
He returned his attention to her face and hair. Her smile warmed him as none other ever had from any lady. Her maid, much to his viewing pleasure, had set three matching red roses in her tresses.
Slowly his mind began to work again. He stepped up, offered her his arm, then escorted her to the settee where the countess was. He waited until she was settled then reached into his jacket, withdrew the case, opened it, and presented the necklace and earrings to her.
“Oh, my but this is so beautiful,” she uttered.
“Thank you, m’ lady. I was hoping you would like it.”
“If you don’t mind, I’ll wear it this eve. It will surely make a statement.”
“I was hoping you would.”
“Then, if you will excuse me, I shan’t be long.”
Brendon helped her stand then studied her as she swept from the room, enjoying the gentle sway of her hips. When she was out of sight, he turned back to her parents who were smiling at him.
“Well done, m’ lord. I haven’t seen our daughter that happy to receive a gift ina long time,” Kristina told him.
“Thank you, m’ lady. I should, in all honesty, tell you I had bought the jewelry this morning when you saw me exiting the shop.”
“We thought as much. Your reason for being there did appear a bit weak. But, that’s the past.We now have the present and future,” Robert said.
“That is true. Do you know if Lady Jolene has learned anything new?”
“She has, but it would be better coming from her, and here she is,” Kristina spoke then waved Jolene into the room.
“M’ lady, the necklace is perfect on you as are the earrings,” Brendon told her.
Settled beside her mother, Brendon was about to repeat his question when Jolene held up a gloved hand.
“From one of my people, I received a note with only one word on it. Counterfeit. At first, I didn’t know what it meant until I spoke with mother. Remember the veiled threat I received last night?”
“Yes, and it still doesn’t make sense to me.”
“Then this might help clear it up a little. The paper the note was written on is exactly the same size as a bank note. To that end, I’ve requested another meeting with Julie. Even though she might not know anything about it, I’d wager she might, albeit unwittingly.”
“If and when you get the approval to meet with her, I would like to join you. If I may?”
“Of course. However, I’ve no idea when that will happen. Also, Thomas Spencer might be joining us. I’ve already informed Vikki of that and that he does believe Julie innocent.”
As she continued to bring him up to date with the investigating, he focusedon her, intrigued by how her lips moved so delicately when she spoke. Why hadn’t he ever noticed it before? He saw the butler come to the door and announce dinner.
When the meal was over, Brendon escorted Jolene to the stairs then turned back to the earl.
“M’ lord, I’m not sure if I should ask who, but would you and Her Ladyship mind if I had three waltzes, if she’s willing, with Lady Jolene?”
“Not at all. My wife and I were hoping you would as Jolene does enjoy partnering with you.”
“Again, thank you.”
“If you don’t mind, we’ll take our town carriage. When we leave the ball, we will then take you to your townhouse. If you don’t mind?”
To spend more time in her company was more than he could have ever imagined. Even if it was in a closed carriage under the strict eyes of her parents. He smiled then excused himself to direct his coachman to return home. That done, he started back when he saw Jolene standing in the mansion doorway. The candlelight behind her appeared to create a halo effect around her head. Yes, she certainly is an angel.
After arriving at the Grayson ball, he lifted the pelisse from her shoulders. He wasn’t surprised at the stares from several of the gentlemen and glares coming from a few matrons who were waiting to be announced.
He leaned over and whispered in Jolene’s ear. “You are certainly causing a stir, and we haven’t even been introduced.”
“Then you might wish to remain at my side all eve. It would appear there are a few rogues who would love to get me in their grasp.”
“A
s you said, you will be under my protection from now until you return home. I do hope that isn’t too demanding on my part?”
No sooner had they been presented to the crush of guests then Brendon escorted Jolene down the steps. He smiled down to her as the opening strains of a waltz started.
“M’ lady, I believe this is our dance,” he said with a bow.
“On that you are correct, m’ lord. I do hope you have chosen to misbehave for I believe you have earned that honor.”
This was more than he could have ever hoped for. He smiled down while silently promising to only bring her closer in the corners. After all, he didn’t wish to be to brazen. That would happen over the coming days.
Collecting her in his arms, he twirled her around theparquet keeping his word to her. He wasn’t surprised that some of the grand dames and matrons weren’t pleased with his behavior. For him the only ones that counted were her parents.
When the music ended, as in the past, he hunted down the settee where the countess had ensconced herself and returned Jolene to her side. He then stepped around to the back where the earl awaited him.
“M’ lord,” Brendon said after returning the earl’s bow.
“Well done, m’ lord. You both have created a bit of a stir. Not only when you were announced then on the dance floor.”
“Thank you, m’ lord. I should point out that it was Lady Jolene’s suggestion on holding her a little closer than dictated. However, I chose to do so only in the corners.”
“Excellent.”
As the evening progressed, Brendon wasn’t surprised at the number of young ladies came up to compliment Jolene on not only the gown but necklace. It made him smile when she would firmly point out that it was a gift from the marquis. That brought gasps from a few and glares to him from even more. When the musicians struck up another waltz Brendon used that as an excuse to separate Jolene from the feather-headed young ladies.
To Save a Lady Page 5
