Page 32 of Grave Expectations
"That'll change very soon. We have a new housekeeper starting tomorrow. Her name is Mrs. Webb."
Doyle returned with the second cup, and I asked him to stay while I told them both about our new housekeeper. I also took the time to inform Doyle of how we did things at Lichfield. It was difficult to say whether he appreciated our informality or not. His face remained blank.
By the end, however, his shoulders were a little less rigid as he collected the cups. "Forgive me for my earlier outburst, miss. It's just that I am unused to such unconventional households. I am grateful to you for giving me this opportunity."
"It's not me you need to thank, but Seth."
He bowed. "I owe Lord Vickers much."
Cook snickered. Once Doyle left, he said, "Lord Vickers don't sound right."
"I think Seth would agree with you there."
Lincoln arrived home with Seth and Gus in time to dine with me in the dining room. After they told me about their progress, I informed them that we had a new housekeeper.
"She starts tomorrow."
"So early?" Lincoln said.
"Yes, why?"
"I need time to investigate her."
"But she answered our ad and her references are excellent. Doyle knows her previous employers."
"Did you check she isn't lying?"
"Why would she lie?"
He arched a brow.
"I suppose she might be the murderer, but it does seem like a convoluted way of getting to me. Besides, she could have killed me in the parlor."
"Were you alone?"
"Doyle remained."
"Then she couldn't have attacked."
I sighed. "I still think it's an overly obscure way to get to me, but you're right. She should be thoroughly checked first. I'll send word to put her off another day."
He shook his head. "I'll investigate her tonight. If you have an address for her previous employer, it won't take long."
I scrutinized him to see if there were any signs of exhaustion on his face, but he seemed perfectly fine, albeit somewhat gruffer than usual. I put that down to worry. "If you're sure."
"I am." His lips flattened into a kind of smile.
I smiled back at him, and after dinner, I took him in my arms before he went out again. "How long will you be gone?"
"No more than two hours. It's a simple matter of ensuring she worked where she claims, and that can be answered with a few questions of the present staff."
"I think I'll look up the name Webb in the files, just to be certain. It's a pity I didn't ask for her maiden name."
"Good idea. Perhaps I can learn the maiden name from the other servants."
He kissed me lightly then left in a carriage driven by Seth. I checked the ministry records kept in the attic, but found no information for Webb.
Upon his return, Lincoln confirmed that she had indeed worked at the Powell residence in Mayfair for several years before her marriage to Mr. Webb. Her name prior to her second marriage was Cotwell, so I searched the archives again while Lincoln returned to his rooms.
