Page 16 of The Gift of Patience
The others stood at attention, awaiting directions. “Do you wish us to complete the search?” Montford asked.
“I think it would be best for due diligence, but certainly I know I would not mind some sustenance first,” Westwood answered.
The others returned to the house, but Ashley knew Renforth would want to question him more. They waited until the others were out of earshot and his superior turned an enquiring eye upon him. “Do you think this is related to our missing arms?”
“We have not yet found any connection or evidence that would link them, but it is too much of a coincidence for my liking.”
“And thus far nothing has been found?”
“We have only just begun searching this morning. I strongly suspect, if anything is to be found, it will be near where we found the man. Why else would he risk capture?”
“Possibly,” was all his colonel would concede. “What other likely areas for storage are there along the river? I cannot think anyone would risk transporting such large cargo far from the dock. They will wish to remove it quickly.”
“Most of the land between here and Greenwich is owned by Westwood or Sir Horace. I am less familiar with the other side of the river, but Westwood should know.”
“After a few words with our captive, I would like to see the area where Miss Whitford first found him, then saw him again.”
“They are one and the same. I will take you there when you are ready.”
Ashley took the brief reprieve to return to the house for luncheon. He wanted to see how Miss Whitford was doing, but she had not joined the others. Where was she?
Unfortunately, he did not have time to seek her out as he was certain Renforth would require his assistance soon. He quickly ate a sandwich and downed a pint of ale before hurrying back to the stables.
Renforth was conversing outside with Baines and Manners.
“Anything?” he asked as he joined them.
“Nothing, as expected. Just give me a little time. The Baines method has never yet failed.” His colleague wore a malicious expression.
“Then, with your permission, I would like to continue searching the estate. Once we are assured that there is no one else here, and that we have looked everywhere for the stored arms, then we can expand our efforts.”
“I agree. Baines can stay here and work his charms on our man while the rest of us can assist with the search. I think it’sprudent to have Westwood invite your neighbour, Sir Horace, over for a discussion,” Renforth said.
“I will inform Westwood. A cold collation has been set out with some good ale, if any of you wish to help yourselves before resuming the search. I must gather the others anyway. I will take you there. If you wish to bring your things, Mrs. Armstrong can also show you to your rooms.”
“I will take your things for you,” Ashley said to Baines. “I will even have some food sent for you.”
“Very gracious of you,” Baines retorted.
Ashley could not help but wonder about Miss Whitford as he did not see her still when they returned to the house. He directed the men to Mrs. Armstrong and to the food, then found Westwood to tell him of their plans. If she did not arrive to help with the rest of the search, then he would send for her. Perhaps she was more shaken than she’d let on.
As he was informing Westwood to invite Sir Horace over, he saw her out on the lawn with the puppy, who was sitting and gazing at her in adoration. Ashley could not blame him. He excused himself and joined her.
Xander saw Ashley first and bounded over to greet him. He was jumping about Ashley’s knees and wagging his tail. Ashley kneeled down to greet him, and was promptly rewarded by Xander rolling on his back and offering his belly.
“You are already becoming insufferable,” he drawled.
“Then you should not encourage him,” Miss Whitford scolded. She seemed at ease, which relieved his own fears.
“Will you be joining us to search the remainder of the estate?”
“Of course. Why would you think otherwise?”
“I remember the first time I came face-to-face with a criminal. It would not surprise me if you changed your mind, isall. For what it is worth, I do not expect to encounter any more unexpected persons.”
“I will not deny it was a bit unsettling when he dragged his fingers across his throat at me.” She demonstrated the motion, and Ashley tried not to react. Suddenly he wanted to strangle the man with his bare hands.
CHAPTER 5
