Page 49 of Rogue of the Greenwood
“That is precisely my concern,” he said, pleased—and surprised—that she grasped the situation so well.
She must have recognized his surprise at her comprehension. She gave him a condescending smile as well as an explanation.
“I understand some matters of law and business,” she said. “My father believed it was perfectly acceptable for ladies to have a brain, because we do, you know. He often discussed business with me and much appreciated my insights.”
“He was fortunate to have them,” Robert said, but of course she still glared.
The good vicar rescued Robert by interrupting. “If you don’t mind, I believe I may have information to add regarding the legality of this mortgage. It’s why I came here, in fact. I talked to my friend who knows of such things. He works in banking and he assures me there’s been no talk of a mortgage filed on your estate.”
“None?” Robert said, puzzled. “But Balford was very certain about it. He said St. John holds the mortgage on my estate.”
“If he does, then it may have been managed in private, an agreement between individuals without bank involvement. St. John would simply need a solicitor, of course, to draw everything up.”
“Oh, Papa has a solicitor,” Miss St. John offered.
Even Miss Maidland seemed surprised by hercousin’s knowledge on the matter.
“His name is Mr. Dent,” Miss St. John went on. “I’ve heard him talking with Papa about mortgages, in fact.”
Robert was thrilled that he might gain useful information so quickly. And from Miss St. John herself!
“Mr. Dent, is it?” he asked. “What did you overhear? Where are the actual copies of the mortgage document?”
Now Miss St. John looked confused. “Well, I have heard them say that word once or twice…”
Robert hid his disappointment. He should not expect Miss St. John to be as knowledgeable about business as her cousin. Most ladies did not bother themselves with such matters—Miss Maidland was certainly an exception. He turned his attentions back to her.
“Have you, by any chance, heard anything, Miss Maidland?” he asked.
She thought for a moment, her features screwed up in contemplation. “I’ve seen Mr. Dent at the house several times; I know he comes to meet with Uncle Prinley quite often. Of course, I don’t make it a habit of eavesdropping, but I do agree with my cousin. The idea of a mortgage is familiar, but I’m afraid I’ve not heard any specifics. Uncle Prinley is not like my father; he believes women should not be involved with any matters of importance. What information do you need?”
Damn, but he should have known St. John would be overly careful. At least Robert had confirmation that the matter was being handled at St. John’s house. The magistrate preferred to keep things close;perhaps some of the documents Robert needed to apprehend were held in the St. John home.
But of course, Gisborn was just as cautious. Robert had no doubt there would be copies made of any relevant paperwork. If St. Johns had documents in his home, surely Gisborn did, too. But how was Robert to stroll into either home to get his hands on them?
“You want to know how you can take possession of that mortgage, don’t you?” Miss Maidland asked with a knowing smile.
“Absolutely! Although, I expect my chances of getting into your uncle’s desk are negligible, at best.”
“Would you like me or Meg to do that for you?” she asked.
He could have fallen over, he was so shocked by her words. “Good God, no! I would never ask that of you.”
“You didn’t,” she said. “I suggested it.”
“Well, forget the idea immediately. It’s far too dangerous.”
Miss St. John professed agreement, visibly shuddering at the mere thought. “Papa would be furious! He would catch us for sure. No, Marianne. I’m afraid we cannot help Mr. Locksley.”
“But Meg, think of it! If Uncle Prinley’s scheme with Mr. Gisborn is upset, then perhaps Mr. Locksley can return to him home.”
“That is the goal,” he said. “But more importantly we must consider how to assure that you and Miss St. John can return to your home.”
Miss Maidland continued. “If you could take your place again, sir, then Mr. Gisborn would be removed. His treachery would be found out and Uncle Prinley would need to distance himself from the man or elsebe found out for his role in their schemes.”
“Yes, that would be likely, but—”
“If he wished to exonerate himself, my uncle might be very much inclined to take your side in order to strip Gisborn of any power to implicate him. And as you are a good friend to Mr. Muchleigh, you would expect my uncle to treat him fairly, wouldn’t you?”
