Page 24 of Kiss Me Lady One More Time
The geologist was greatly restored by the sketches of Tensford’s fish and the ensuing debate on the preservation of spines versus cartilage versus teeth. Sterne waited and watched and judged the moment when the man appeared to have completely relaxed.
“If we were to look in the direction of men who might be deemed collectors rather than scholars, and towards those who might be willing to dabble in the black-market trade of stolen specimens, would you find yourself able to provide a few names for such a list?”
Mr. Goodson sighed and shook his head at the sketch in his hand. “And these measurements are accurate?” he asked Tensford. “It was that big?”
“I made them myself,” the earl confirmed.
“A great loss.” Goodson sighed. “I am sorry that you endured it.” He thought a moment, then gave a nod. “Yes. Seeing as you are a member yourself, sir, I will consult a few of the other directors and I will come up with a list of names. A short list, it is to be hoped.”
“I shall be very grateful for the assistance,” Tensford told him.
“I suppose it’s time I took my leave, but I thank you gentlemen for a very stimulating morning.”
Tensford saw the man out. When they had gone, Sterne threw himself onto a sofa where Whiddon sat, dozing on the other end. “Good job, man. He was a good contact—and might yet lead to better.”
“How long do you think he will dither?” Whiddon yawned. “And how many names do you think he’ll leave off?”
“We can only hope Tensford has won him over. Goodson seems convinced of his scholarship, at least. That will weigh in his favor.”
Tensford came striding back into the room, his face set in grim lines. “There’s a note from Miss Munroe. Hope has taken ill.”
Sterne was on his feet at once. “Where are they?”
The earl’s brows raised. “It would seem that they’ve taken refuge in your rooms.”
Chapter 6
The landlady of Sterne’s building recognized the countess, thank goodness. She unlocked his apartments for them and helped Penelope get Hope settled on a sofa and even brought up a tea tray.
“Thank you, Mrs. Lewis,” Hope said wearily.
Penelope fixed her friend a cup of heavily sugared tea. The landlady added a dollop of brandy and poured them each a cup, as well. She’d brought in a soft, clean blanket and Penelope thanked the woman profusely as she tucked it around Hope.
“I’ll be fine in a moment, I’m sure,” Hope insisted.
“Was it the bacon, I wonder?” Penelope frowned. “But I ate it as well and I feel fine.”
“I’m sure it’s just the constant motion of the last few days, catching up with me. I don’t feel sick at all, now. I’m just so tired. I’ll close my eyes for a few moments and then we’ll be on our way.”
Penelope walked to the door with the landlady. “You sent the note?”
“I did.” Mrs. Lewis looked back. “The poor dear.”
“Thank you so much, for everything. Let’s just let her sleep until the earl arrives.”
“I’ll keep watch. Just open the door and call if you need anything.”
“Thank you, again.” Penelope quietly closed the door after her. She stood with her back to it for a moment. Hope’s breathing was already deep and even.
She was, to all intents and purposes, alone.
In Sterne’s private rooms.
She held still, waiting for the rush of worry to calm and allowing a slightly guilty sense of excitement to build as she looked around.
It was a fine set of rooms, with high ceilings and long windows that let in plenty of light. The sofa that Hope slumbered on was pulled close to the fire, at an angle. The mantle was substantial and above it hung a lovely portrait done in rich colors. She felt as if she should know the artist, but she didn’t recognize the woman portrayed, her gentle expression gazing out as she held a child close, her face resting on the small, sweet head.
Books lay everywhere, piled on the floor, on a table by the sofa and on a nearby desk. She crossed over and sat there. Someone had spilled ink on the surface, at some time in the past. She traced a finger over the stain, then saw the botanical print she’d given him lying nearby. The ribbon wasn’t tied about it, and she wondered if he’d looked at it and remembered their conversation, as she had.
