“Hmm,” Ralph said, as he puffed on his pipe and seemed to be considering. “I have to say, I am not out of the woods yet. Until this whole matter is settled, I have no idea what could happen. Perhaps your uncle has talked to the authorities, but they have not acted yet? I think it would be unwise of me to commit sums of money I might later need for my defense.”
“I could not agree with you more,” Thomas said, giving George a sour look for speaking. “But I need to go to London shortly, and I had thought to visit my uncle—wherever he might be. Let me find out what, if anything, he has said. And I will let you know.”
Ralph seemed to like that and said, “Very well. However, it seems unlikely to me, knowing your uncle, that he would not have spoken to someone about my involvement in France.
Thomas replied, “I would like to put your mind at ease and will try and get a definitive answer for you.”
Ralph suddenly smiled strangely and asked, “And is there any chance you might reconsider marrying Helena?”
George’s face froze, and he looked at Thomas.
“Absolutely none, Ralph. You forget your daughter is already engaged to my dear friend, George.”
George looked greatly relieved.
“No harm in asking,” Ralph said with a wink.
* * *
Thomas had just returned to Pemberton after the meeting with Lord Comerford. George had remained behind to discuss with Helena what was to be done about putting a hold on their marriage plans. Thomas no sooner got his outer coat off than Grandmamma appeared at his study door.
“Thomas, what is going on?” she asked in an abrasive tone.
“How do you mean?” he asked, trying to get his bearings after an uncertain morning.
“Your Prunella just announced to me that they are to leave first thing tomorrow morning. I asked her why and she said, in a very nasty tone, that you must be the one to explain.”
Thomas could not help but chuckle slightly. “Oh, yes… First of all, she is notmyPrunella. I have come to the conclusion that she isnotthe right lady to be the Duchess of Pemberton. Before leaving the house, I made it clear that there would be no proposal of marriage from me. She took this information badly, I presume, and so they have chosen to return to London, where I know she shall be a great deal happier than spending any more time in the rundown Pemberton House.”
Grandmamma could not repress a slight smile. “I see. Hmm. And whohaveyou chosen to be Duchess of Pemberton, might I ask?”
“No one, Grandmamma. At this time, I have decided to put all my focus and effort on the horses. I will build a fine business for the estate, and until I achieve that goal, I will not think further about finding a wife.”
“Oh, Thomas… what am I to do with you?”
“And I am glad you are here, for I wanted to tell you I am off to London tomorrow to meet with Wilcox. I thought you might want to know in case you wished to send him any correspondence.”
“You know for certain heisin London?”
“Yes, at Marshalsea.”
“Oh, poor Wilcox. I hear it is a terrible place.”
“I am not certain any other prison would be better, Grandmamma. But I hope to meet with him and find out if he has spoken against Lord Comerford. As of this time, there have been no inquiries or charges brought against his Lordship.”
“Yes, I should like to send a letter to Wilcox. And do you think they would allow a parcel of some warm clothing and perhaps some food?”
“I have no idea, but prepare it, and I will try to take it to him.”
* * *
The Ladies Alderman decided to take all their meals in their rooms until they were to leave the next morning. Cordelia, however, showed up at all the family gatherings and was delightful and entertaining.
The next morning, Thomas was preparing papers for his trip to London when his study door opened, and the two Ladies Alderman appeared in their traveling cloaks.
“Your Grace,” the elder Lady said, “We are soon to depart. We wanted to thank you for your generous hospitality and wish you well in your business endeavor.”
“Then you do not regret investing in our project?” he asked with a slight smile.
