Page 77 of Lady Edith and the Registry Office
“Yes, they are.”
She wasn’t sure what else to ask the man. She doubted he knew much about individual voyages. Edith would have to ask Lord Harbury if he’d contacted anyone at the Transport Board. It seemed the next logical step in their investigations.
Although she couldn’t imagine Mr. Lambourne was involved with the RA, she would not ask specific questions about the missing men.
“Shall we rejoin your party?” Lord Kettering asked her when she remained silent.
“Thank you for speaking with me, Mr. Lambourne. I’ve neglected my father long enough.”
After Lord Kettering escorted her to her father’s side, the gentleman excused himself to speak with other members of the society.
“This is an unbelievably boring gathering. I hope you found out something useful,” Louisa whispered.
She nodded. “The next step to discover whether our veterans are being transported would be to speak with the Transport Board.”
“Something you do not plan on doing yourself?” her father asked with a frown.
“Lord Harbury can undertake that task. I wouldn’t imagine anyone on the board would speak to a woman about their business.” She paused. “You won’t tellanyoneabout our missing veterans, Father?”
“No, my dear. And you must promise not to put yourself in any danger.”
She blinked. “Danger? Never, Father.”
“Would you mind terribly if we went home, Lord Essex?” Louisa let out a long breath. “I feel a migraine coming on.”
Edith wasn’t sure if Louisa was telling the truth, but she was glad her friend had spoken up. Louisa was right: the reception was incredibly dull.
* * * * *
“Nathaniel?”
The voice and knock were his sister.
“Come!”
He was in his study reading the papers to look for any events in the news that could be related to the missing veterans. Thus far, nothing stood out.
“I haven’t seen you all day, brother.”
“I had some business to take care of.” He paused. “When I returned home, I wanted some quiet time.”
“And the last thing I am is quiet.”
He couldn’t think of a reply.
“I know what people say about me. I’m trying to do better, really I am.”
He smiled kindly. “Be yourself, Alicia. I love you the way you are.”
“You are a very patient man. Lady Edith is the only other person I know who has as much patience with me, although Lady Kettering does try.”
“Lady Edith is a kindhearted lady,” he replied carefully.
“And pretty?” his sister asked coyly.
“Yes.” He nodded. “Although I’m sure she would rather be considered intelligent.”
“You could marry Lady Edith.” Alicia winked at him.
