Page 44 of Foolish Bride
Michael went behind the desk and adjusted a stack of papers on the corner.
Thomas flopped on the couch and crossed his feet.
Finally, Hardwig raised his head. “During my investigation I found some rather strange anomalies in the estate of Kerburghe.”
“The title goes back several hundred years, Inspector. What kind of anomalies did you find?” Michael didn’t like the sound of this. It was one thing if someone else had a prior legitimate claim on the title. He would have to live with that. He had never expected to be titled, let alone a duke, but if this was the crown backing out of their promise, he would seek justice.
“Relax, your grace. You are the Duke of Kerburghe. No one will dispute that. That is not what I meant. What I found was that someone has been playing the part since the last duke’s demise. At least that’s what I think.”
A sinking feeling settled in Michael’s gut. “What do you mean, ‘playing duke?’ How can that be?”
“At first I thought I must be crazy. The last Duke of Kerburghe died over a year ago. His name was Willoghby Roxton. He was ninety-four years old at his death and had never married. He left no sons and no brother who had sons who are living, and so the title returned to the crown. It’s a fine holding, even though it is in Scotland. Just before this Roxton passed, his very distant nephew, one Carter Smyth, convinced the old duke to allow him to change his name to Roxton. In fact, he changed the name of his entire family: two brothers, a sister, and even his mother. I am not certain if the documents are legal. He may have forged the old man’s signature. In any case, he then proceeded to Kerburghe lands and took over, saying he was the heir apparent when the duke died. He named himself as successor, taking the profits from a coal mine and good farmland and living quite well for himself.”
Michael didn’t know what to say. It was absurd. He laughed.
Open-mouthed, James watched him. “You think it’s funny, your grace? This cur has been stealing from you. At least, that’s my supposition. I haven’t any hard proof yet.”
“No, it is not really funny. But we’ve met Roxton and frankly, he did not seem smart enough to pull this off. You have to admit it’s rather clever.”
“As I said, I do not have hard proof.”
Thomas said, “I know you, James. If you’ve come up with all of this, then your evidence must be compelling. You just need proof that will stand up in court.”
“What do you plan to do now?” Michael asked.
“With your permission and your help, your grace, I’d like to catch him in the act, so to speak. He’s been living in Scotland, but I heard recently he took up residence in London. Bought himself a townhouse and seems very comfortable.”
“With my money, I presume.” Michael liked this Roxton or Smyth less and less. He’d gone from annoyance to problem in only a few hours.
“I would surmise as much.” James stood and buttoned his jacket.
“What’s the plan?” Thomas stood as well, looking ready to fight the next battle.
James shook his head. “My original plan won’t work now. I didn’t realize that you had met Roxton, umm, Smyth. Thought you could go to Scotland and surprise him. Then I could arrest him with the help of a few of my men. Now I’ll have to think this through for a day or two. Do I have your permission to go to your lands, your grace?”
If Thomas trusted James, he could, too. “I trust you, Inspector. You saved the life of two of my closest friends over the years.”
James blushed.
“You may act on my authority. I would appreciate to be kept apprised of what is happening, and if you need my assistance, I shall be available.”
“I will let you know when I have a plan in place, your grace. I appreciate your faith in me.”
“Why don’t you join us for dinner, James?” Thomas plucked his gloves from the top of the desk.
James puffed up and grinned. “I would not want to intrude.”
“Not at all,” Michael assured him. “You would be most welcome.”
Smiling, the inspector accepted, and the three left for dinner.
Chapter 11
Elinor entered Flammel house just as Dory glided down the stairs toward the foyer.
Lord and Lady Castlereagh greeted their guests under the elegant crystal chandelier. Maids and footmen bustled in crisp gold livery.
Elinor curtsied before her hosts. “Good evening, my lord and lady. Thank you for inviting me.”
