A Rogue to the Rescue (The Rogue Chronicles #4) Page 3

  Those large blue—no, they were more grey—eyes might hold wariness now, but he wondered what they’d look like filled with joy. The thought of her as a servant in someone’s household made him grimace. He well knew what happened to attractive female servants. The master often considered them fair game, no matter how wrong it was.

  Her tale was so disturbing that it was almost difficult to believe. Yet he didn’t doubt her for a moment. The question was where did they go from here? She knew no one and was completely alone in the world. Did she by chance have possessions stowed somewhere?

  The thought of having nothing to claim as his own and no family to aid him made him empathize with his unexpected guest. She was in a terrible predicament, but it could’ve ended far worse.

  While he and Richard hadn’t always been close, he liked to think they were now, and he had no doubt his brother would be there if he needed him. A part of Daniel still resented the fact that Richard had never advised him that he was a spy. He’d told Daniel additional lies to cover the truth, including that their family had a serious lack of funds. Daniel was proud of Richard and all he’d sacrificed to aid England’s war efforts. But the realization that his brother hadn’t trusted him with the truth pained him.

  The issue was something Daniel was still working through. Perhaps that was why he kept his fair share of secrets from Richard. Since his brother was now married and he and Caroline were expecting a child, Daniel didn’t know if they would ever resolve the issues that stood between them. Was Richard even aware of the distance?

  Daniel shook his head at his circling thoughts. He was grateful to have his brother in his life even if their relationship wasn’t perfect.

  Deciding it best to allow Miss Linfield to sleep as long as possible, he settled behind his desk to review the latest investment reports he’d received.

  In truth, he had Richard to thank for his financial success. For many years, he’d made his limited inheritance stretch as far as he could. He’d lived modestly and studied various financial opportunities, investing a portion of his money in the four percents, an investment that provided low-risk interest, as well as in a few shipping ventures that had paid off significantly. Then he’d repeated the process, taking only a few minor missteps over the years, until he had a substantial sum to his name.

  Daniel’s penchant for winning at cards and Richard’s reputation as a rakehell, something his brother had promoted over the years to cover his spying activities, had given Daniel a reputation as well.

  While he enjoyed gambling, drinking, and women, until recently the delights of an attractive widow, he didn’t consider himself a rogue but much of the ton did. That was all the more reason he needed to move Miss Linfield out from under his roof once she was feeling better. He didn’t want her ruined because of her stay with him.

  Realizing he wasn’t going to accomplish anything at his desk with the question of the beautiful lady upstairs, he set aside the papers and rose to look in on her when a knock sounded at the door.

  “Yes?”

  Pierre opened the door wide, a smile on his face. “Miss Linfield to see you, sir.”

  Shocked, Daniel watched as she entered the room, wearing what he assumed was the borrowed gown Mrs. Beverly had procured, based on the ill-fitting look of the simple, dark-grey muslin. Miss Linfield’s hair had been tidied, her cheeks held a hint of color, and though shadows still marked her eyes, she looked even lovelier than before. Dear heavens, what might she look like when in good health and dressed in a proper gown?

  “I’m surprised to see you up and about so soon.” He came around the desk to greet her, doing his best to ignore his awareness of her. “Are you certain you shouldn’t be resting?”

  “I wished to speak with you about contacting the authorities.” Her brow puckered as if the issue caused her great concern.

  “Of course.” He gestured toward the settee before the fire. The poor thing still looked as though she might collapse at any moment. “I can send for a Bow Street Runner, and we can report your experience to him.”

  “Yes, please. You see, there was another young woman there. Mary.” She sank to the cushion, her gaze holding his as he joined her. “I hope something can be done to free her along with any others held against their will.”

  Daniel glanced up to see Pierre still in the doorway. “Will you send for a Runner?”

  “Of course, sir.” The valet bowed and took his leave.

  “With luck, someone will arrive within the hour.”

  She nodded in relief. “I tried to convince Mary to leave with me, but she was too frightened.”

  “Your courage is admirable as is your concern for her.”

  “I’m terribly sorry to involve you in all this. Once I speak with the Runner, I will go. I’ve relied upon your kindness too much already.”

  “Nonsense.” Daniel didn’t care for the thought of her leaving when she obviously still felt weak.

  He could see her pulse fluttering at the base of her throat and noted the increased rate of her breathing. She seemed worried as well. His protective instincts rose. “There’s no rush for you to depart. Allow me to assist you in dealing with the authorities. Then you can rest again. Later, when you’re feeling better, we’ll determine your next step.”

  “Mr. Walker, I am a stranger to you.” Those beautiful but wary eyes with their gold and brown flecks held on him. “Why would you offer so much?”

  “Because it is in my power to do so, and I think you could use a friend given everything you’ve been through.”

  “Is there a Mrs. Walker?” She glanced about the room as if looking for a sign that he had a wife.

  “No.” He sat back on the settee, wondering what he could say to reassure her. “My brother and his wife also live in the city, not far from here.” Would mentioning that his brother was the Earl of Aberland aid him or only cause her more concern?

  “Oh?”

  “I intend to call upon them this afternoon and advise them of your predicament. Perhaps they could also help in some way.”

  “How?”

  He smiled, appreciating her bluntness. “I suppose that depends on you and your plans. I don’t know what sort of position you were hoping for, but my sister-in-law is well connected with other ladies in London. She might know of someone in need of your skills, whatever they might be.”

  “How kind. That would be very helpful.” She adjusted the gown to keep it on her shoulders, drawing his attention to the smooth skin visible above the gaping neckline. “I confess I’m still trying to determine how to go about finding a position. The thought of using another registry office is far from appealing.”

  “Understandable, given your experience.”

  He shifted the conversation to other topics to distract her from the interview ahead. Recounting the details of what happened would be painful enough without further dwelling on them. Hopefully, some of his own questions would be answered once the Runner arrived and she shared her story.

  Nearly three-quarters of an hour had passed before Pierre announced the arrival of Thomas Hurdy, a former sergeant with a beefy build and receding hairline, who now spent his days investigating crimes that were reported to him. While paid a salary, Runners also received a reward for the conviction of criminals, encouraging them to see their investigations through to the end.

  Daniel appreciated his military background. Surely that aided his efforts to conduct an investigation with efficiency and thoroughness.

  “Now then,” Hurdy began as he settled into a chair after introductions had been made. “Why don’t you tell me how I can be of assistance?”

  Daniel gave Miss Linfield a reassuring nod, and she told Mr. Hurdy her story, managing to share the details concisely.

  “Where was the brothel located?” Hurdy asked.

  “I couldn’t say for certain. I’m not familiar with London and I was never told the address. I only know it was run by a Mr. Finch and a Mrs. Cole.”

  Hurdy frowned, shaking his head. “There are numerous brothels in the city. Without more details, I’m not certain what I can do.”

  Miss Linfield glanced at Daniel in concern before returning her attention to the Runner. “Can’t you make inquiries based on their names?”

  “I’ll do what I can, but I can’t make any promises.”

  “What of the registry office?” Daniel asked. “Perhaps starting there would be wise.”

  “I don’t see how. Just because a worker there slipped Miss Linfield’s information and whereabouts to a brothel owner doesn’t mean it happens on a regular basis. And it would be difficult if not impossible to prove.”

  “Perhaps not.” Miss Linfield clutched her hands that rested on her lap into fists. “There was another woman in the brothel. Mary. Something similar happened to her.”

  “Do you know Mary’s surname?”

  “No.” Miss Linfield’s reply was barely above a whisper. Daniel could hear the defeat in her voice even though her posture remained perfect.

  “I’ll have a look at the registry office, do a little digging, and see if I can locate the brothel. If you remember any additional details, such as the name of the place or the address, send word.” Hurdy rose. “Otherwise it’s a bit of a wild goose chase.” The man turned to go only to turn back. “A word of advice, miss. London is full of people willing to take advantage of those in need of assistance. You’d be better off finding a position through a personal recommendation.”

  Miss Linfield rose as well. “Thank you for the suggestion, Mr. Hurdy. However, those of us new to London have difficulty knowing who to trust, let alone gain a personal recommendation. One would expect a registry office to be just that—an office where one could register to help find employment.”

  Hurdy nodded as he retrieved his hat from a nearby table. “True enough. I’ll be in touch when I know more.”

  “Why does it feel as if that were a waste of time?” Miss Linfield asked after Hurdy took his leave.

  “We’ll have to hope he finds something when he starts to dig.” Yet for Daniel, that wasn’t enough. “Which registry office did you use? I should very much like to have a closer look.”

  She shifted, hesitating before she advised him of the name and address. “Why?”

  “I don’t want anyone else to experience what you did. It won’t hurt to make a few inquiries of my own there to see what I can find. Something foul is afoot, and I should like to get to the bottom of it.”

  The weight of her regard now had him shifting. He didn’t care to examine the reason for his outrage overmuch. But he detested the idea of people taking advantage of others for their own personal gain.

  Richard wasn’t the only one who believed in doing his part to make their country better. His brother had risked his life for the good of England. The least Daniel could do was try to shut down a scheme that took advantage of those seeking honest employment.

  Chapter Three

  Beatrice paused after Mr. Walker assisted her to alight from the carriage later that afternoon and stared up at his brother’s home with dismay. “My goodness.”

  The mansion had the look of a Georgian villa and shouted wealth, with a three-story red brick exterior, wrought-iron garden fence and balconies. Just who was his brother to have a home like this? It was even nicer than Mr. Walker’s.

  The imposing appearance made her even more nervous than she already was. When Mr. Walker had suggested she stay with his brother and sister-in-law instead of him, she’d been reluctant to agree. Something about her rescuer calmed her, but she understood and appreciated his concern about her reputation.

  Mr. Walker followed her gaze as if seeing the house through her eyes. “They’ve made several improvements in the past year. Caroline, my sister-in-law, insisted on it.”

  His amusement left Beatrice wondering what was behind his remark.

  “There’s something I should mention,” he began as they walked toward the front steps. “My brother is the Earl of Aberland.”

  Beatrice stopped short to stare at him. “An earl?” She glanced at her attire as a sinking sensation filled her. “Oh dear.”

  “I’ve already informed Richard and Caroline of your situation. There’s no need to worry.”

  If only that were true. She detested having to burden them by staying at their home even for a few days. Especially when she felt so overwhelmed by her circumstances and uncertain of what to do.

  To think his brother and his wife were nobility was all the more intimidating. Especially when she was arriving in a borrowed gown without a penny to her name.

  Her mother had been the daughter of a baron, but Beatrice had only met her grandfather once prior to his death and before her mother had passed. She’d met other members of the nobility during a ball hosted by the local lord near their village. But that had been a completely different set of circumstances than this.

  The idea of asking for a stranger’s help when she couldn’t offer anything in return was concerning. She was used to being the one, along with her father, who offered assistance to others.

  Yet she couldn’t bring herself to try another registry office. At least not until she felt more herself. Which meant she was walking through that imposing door with its gleaming brass knocker and taking advantage of whatever assistance the lord and lady were willing to provide. She’d do everything in her power to show how grateful she was and pray that was sufficient.

  “They are both kind. I promise.” Mr. Walker’s smile eased her concern.

  If she weren’t careful, she could easily become used to his calming presence, not to mention that charming smile. Why he hadn’t yet married was a puzzle to her.

  The front door opened as they reached it, the butler smiling at Mr. Walker as he bid them to enter.

  “Lord and Lady Aberland are in the drawing room awaiting your arrival, sir.”

  “Excellent. Thank you, Dawson.” Mr. Walker offered his arm, and they followed the butler up the stairs.

  The drawing room was a welcoming yet elegant mixture of white and bright yellow that brought in the sun, something often elusive in London from what she’d been told.

  “Daniel. Good to see you as always.” The family resemblance between the Earl of Aberland and his brother was immediately evident. They both had the same lean face, narrow nose, and a square jaw. Both handsome, though Daniel’s features were less sharp and more welcoming in her opinion. While the earl had brown eyes, his younger brother’s hazel ones didn’t seem to miss any detail.

  Lady Aberland was beautiful with pale hair, green eyes, and a warm, inviting expression. She and her husband made an attractive couple.

  “Good afternoon.” Mr. Walker smiled at them both before turning to Beatrice, his steady regard easing her tension. “Allow me to introduce Miss Beatrice Linfield.”

  Beatrice curtsied, all too aware of her borrowed gown and shoes, neither of which properly fit. But they were much better than the nightrail she’d worn when Mr. Walker had found her, and for that she was grateful.

  To her surprise, the lady rose and walked forward to take her hands, her smile genuine. “Such a pleasure to meet you. I’m so sorry to hear of the trials you’ve endured since you arrived in London.”

  “Thank you.” Beatrice’s worry lifted a fraction more. “It’s very kind of you to assist me.”

  “Not at all.” Lady Aberland released her hand and turned to her husband. “We’re happy to help. Aren’t we, dear?”

  “Of course.” The earl studied his brother for a long moment before his dark gaze returned to Beatrice, his expression difficult to discern.

  “Please join us.” The lady gestured toward a chair and they all took a seat. “Daniel tells us you’re from Herefordshire.”

  “Yes, my father served as vicar in Bromyard since before I was born. He passed away two months ago after falling ill.”

  “Our condolences for your loss. And your mother?”

  “She died when I was ten years of age.”

  “You’re all alone now. That must be difficult. I can’t imagine.” Lady Aberland’s obvious empathy was unexpected. “Daniel has told us some of what happened, but would you share your story with us?”

  Beatrice had already braced herself for the request. It was logical that they’d want to hear it. She would if she were them. If they were willing to help her find a position, telling them all that had occurred was the least she could do.

  After a glance at Mr. Walker, who gave her one of his encouraging nods, she told them of her arrival in London and the events that followed. She found it much easier to look at Lady Aberland as she spoke. The earl’s expression was stoic, revealing little. Mr. Walker had already heard the tale twice.

  She kept it as brief as possible, trying to keep her emotions under control as she spoke. Yet her voice trembled when she shared the brief time she’d spent in the brothel as well as her escape. Thoughts of Mary had her worrying once more about the woman.

  “And then you came upon her as you were walking home from the club?” the earl asked his brother.

  “Yes. I thought I was seeing a ghost at first.”

  Beatrice appreciated his attempt at levity along with the smile he gave her as if they shared a secret.

  “You must’ve been so frightened,” Lady Aberland suggested, her eyes wide.

  “I was. But I’m grateful I managed to escape.” If only Mary had joined her. She looked at her rescuer. “And for Mr. Walker’s assistance.”

  “Your message mentioned you contacted a Runner.” The earl glanced at his brother before looking back at Beatrice. “Was he of any assistance?”

  “Unfortunately, he was less than encouraging.” Mr. Walker’s scowl described how Beatrice felt as well.

  “I wasn’t able to provide enough details for him, I’m afraid.” Beatrice shook her head, wishing she knew more.

  “I expected him to show more concern when he heard young women are being drugged and handed over to brothels upon arriving in London.” Mr. Walker rose and walked to the window to look out as if too restless to sit. “What is the country coming to when such things occur under our noses and the authorities don’t seem to care?”