Page 50 of Death of a Courtesan
‘I don’t,’ Salter said, shuddering, ‘but they obviously did.’
‘It takes all sorts, sergeant.’
‘Given Adelaide’s ability to please, you won’t be surprised to learn then that she was still a virgin,’ Riley remarked.
‘Not as surprised as you obviously were, and still are, inspector. I never discussed the matter with Adelaide, but I was aware how much she disliked being touched, and how skilled she was at giving her clients relief in other ways.’ She chuckled. ‘Good for her, is what I say.’
‘That particular snippet of information has not been made public and I would prefer for it to remain that way.’
‘I wouldn’t have lasted long in this business if I wasn’t able to keep a secret. I shall not repeat anything that you have told me, inspector. You have my assurance in that regard.’
‘Thank you, and in return you may reopen this evening.’
‘That’s a relief. The girls are becoming restless. If they are not working they’re not earning, and with nothing better to do they are reduced to squabbling amongst themselves.’
‘Who will take over Adelaide’s position, just as a matter of interest?’ Salter asked.
‘Young Ruby is keen and, given that she is so young, it might work.’
‘Not Mirabelle?’
‘She already has her favourites. It wouldn’t do to disappoint them.’
‘How does Mirabelle feel about Ruby upstaging her?’ Riley asked.
‘If you imagine she killed Adelaide in order to steal her position as favourite in this house then I’m afraid you’re barking up the wrong tree. Mirabelle didn’t like Adelaide, but she is not skilled at flagellation—and it is a skill, despite what you might think. Not just anyone can do it and give the men the gratification they seek. Fortunately Ruby had undergone some training from Adelaide and, like her mentor, has a natural aptitude. It will all work out, I expect.’
‘One last thing, Mrs Sinclair,’ Riley said, standing when she did. ‘If Clement shows his face here within the next few days, I should be grateful if you would get word to me discreetly.’
‘Should I be worried about him renewing his interest in the girls in their professional capacity? Clearly you suspect him of something and I have a duty of care. Besides, I can’t afford to lose any more of my girls. It’s bad for business.’
‘And there was me thinking you were worried about their welfare,’ Salter muttered with a disgruntled twist to his lips.
‘If I thought he was dangerous he would be under arrest,’ Riley assured her, sending Salter a castigating look. ‘I am simply interested in…well, in his interest in this establishment. I cannot tell you why at this stage, but if he says anything about Adelaide that you think I should know about when he supplies your cellar, or asks about our investigation, I would appreciate being told.’
‘Very well, inspector. Thank you for being so candid. Tennyson,’ she called through the now open doorway. ‘The gentlemen are leaving. Please show them out.’
‘What did you make of Tennyson, sir?’ Salter asked as the two men walked briskly in the direction of Clement’s wine shop in Dover Street.
‘He’s not our man and nor is he in cahoots with the person who is.’ A light drizzle had started to fall. Riley pulled his hat lower over his eyes, thought of calling a cab but, upon glancing at the stalled traffic, decided it would be quicker to continue on foot. ‘He has a plum position there with Mrs Sinclair and doesn’t want to risk losing it. Besides, I get the impression that he can take his pick of the girls whenever the fancy takes him. A perk of the job, so to speak, that ensures his loyalty.’
‘Yeah, that’s what I thought too. I’d much rather it was the aunt, or one of those brothers. Don’t like any of ’em.’
Riley smiled. ‘If we gaoled all the people we disliked, the prisons would burst at the seams.’
‘Perhaps, but I don’t see why Tennyson should be the only one to get perks from his employment.’
‘This case is getting to you, isn’t it, Jack?’
‘I’m trying not to let it.’ Salter lifted his hat and scratched vigorously at his forehead, mindless of the persistent drizzle. ‘It’s just the thought of so many people taking advantage of them poor gals that gets to me.’
‘I realise that. But at least if we find out who killed Adelaide her life will have meant something.’
Salter chuckled. ‘Especially if her real identity accidentally finds its way into the newspapers. You know how these things happen,’ he added innocently. ‘That sanctimonious old bag of bones won’t be able to hold her head up ever again after that.’
Aware that his sergeant was referring to Ruth Huxton and that he held her partially responsible for Adelaide’s plight, Riley could only nod his agreement.
The rain grew heavier so Riley and Salter took advantage of a hansom that had just dropped off a fare and completed their journey in relative comfort.
