Page 8 of Georgiana
“Anyone with eyes in in their head knew Lady Susan’s only interest lay in Lord Dorchester. Slade’s losing his touch if he thought he stood even a ghost of a chance.”
Max nodded politely as the Duke of Argyll and his ever-present shadow, Lord Alvanley passed by on their way to the gaming rooms. Immediately Slade rose to his feet and followed them.
“That’s not all Slade’s lost,” George said. “I have it on good authority his estate is mortgaged to the rafters and all his holdings are nothing but vowels in the hands of those he’s wagered against and lost.”
“How do you find these things out?” Max leaned back in his chair and assessed his brother. Like a dog with a bone, nothing remained hidden when George decided to ferret out truth. “You amaze me.”
“I may be out of the game, but I still know most of the players.”
“I for one am glad you are out of the game. It was by far too dangerous.”
Max nodded his head in agreement at Nathan’s words. George had played a very dangerous game indeed. For over five years he worked for the Crown as a spy, letting any and all believe he was a lecherous cad interested only in the next skirt he could lift. He’d played the part well, so much so even he and Nathan believed the worst of him, convinced his soul was on a perilous ride to an eternity in Hades. They’d had no clue he ruthlessly ferreted out those who would harm the King and Country, making numerous trips to Paris in disguise.
“Slade has made inquiries about Miss Darcy.”
“Miss Darcy!” Max almost choked on his brandy and a slight panic chased through his body.
“What type of inquiries, George?”
Thank heavens Nathan had the sense to ask.
“Her dowry and inheritance.”
“I must warn Darcy of Slade’s intentions.” Max murmured.
“I’d offer to carry the message, but as you know I have a young wife waiting at our new house in Mayfair. I should not even be here with you tonight.”
“I’ll have a word with him.” Max placed his snifter on the table and leved a dark look at George. “Speaking of your new house in Mayfair, remind me to punish you for stealing my under butler.”
“Fields? I did not steal him, he volunteered.”
Nathan laughed outright and Max gave him a frustrated glare. Their youngest brother shrugged his shoulders and continued to grin.
“Poppycock.” Max continued. “Fields has been at Kerr house for almost fifteen years and with Benson nearing retirement, his promotion to butler was imminent. What incentive did you offer?”
“Nothing. I find all I have to do is introduce my beautiful wife and her grace and charm has everyone eating out of her hand within the hour. They adore her.”
“Who are ‘they’?” Nathan asked and given the tone Max knew he was greatly amused.
“Well… Max might have to hire a new upstairs maid and a few footmen.”
“George!”
“Would it help if I told you Fields promised to find another capable man to fill his shoes?”
“Good butlers are extremely hard to come by. You owe me, little brother.” Max signaled the major domo to call for his carriage. “Give my newest sister a hug and say hello to all of my previous staff members who have joined you in your new home.”
“I shall, and I promise not to pilfer any more staff, although you do have a wonderful cook, and my Catherine loves her strawberry tarts…”
“No. Reconnoiter Nathan’s estate and leave mine alone.”
“I am not worried,” Nathan said with a laugh. “My staff are safely ensconced in Derbyshire, far from Catherine’s charms.”
“Your carriage is ready, your Grace.” The major domo bowed slightly and Max stood.
Even though it was not in fashion, they gave each other a brotherly hug. Max retrieved his cape and hat before proceeding out into the night, his carriage and driver waiting patiently.
“Where to, your Grace?” The driver asked.
