Page 61 of Lady Louisa and the Carriage Clock
Chapter Twenty-Two
“I agree that Lady Cairs is an excellent candidate for our Cupid,” Edith said from her place on the settee of Thorne’s Lending Library.
“Did you ask your father about Venus and Cupid?” Louisa asked her friend.
Edith nodded. “He had no idea of anyone in society being referred to by either moniker.”
“My father has barred Lord Wycliffe from Carstairs, and Leopold agreed with the decision.”
“It’s understandable,” Edith replied calmly. “The man's home was burgled, and he is known to be hunting down members of the Rogue's Alliance. I wonder what the ton thinks of the viscount destroying perfectly serviceable clocks.”
“I hadn’t thought of that.” Louisa felt a laugh bubble up in her throat. She put a hand over her mouth.
“What is it?”
“Everyone must think Lord Wycliffe is superstitious or mentally unsound.” Her laugh burst forth, and Edith joined her. “He might well be the main topic of conversation at Lady Sandhurst’s card party this evening.”
Both were silent a moment as they caught their breath.
“Someone is looking through the window at us,” Edith squinted in the direction of the front of the library. “I think it is Cecil’s man. The one named Mr. Bones.”
Louisa felt her heart race. Now that the viscount had her clock there was no reason for Bones to follow her. Perhaps Lord Wycliffe was still concerned about her safety.
“Lord Wycliffe is still having me watched.” Before Edith could respond, Louisa smiled, adding lightly, “I think we should attend the exhibition at Dulwich Picture Gallery tomorrow afternoon. If you recall, I wanted to view some of David Wilkie’s work.”
“You are up to something, Louisa. I can always tell because you’re far too cheerful.”
“What does that mean?” she asked, taken aback.
“You always smile far too much when you’re planning something.”
“I think we should walk down the street to Gunter’s.” She stood up.
“It’s cold outside,” Edith replied, frowning.
She rolled her eyes. “And while walking, we should loudly discuss our intention of visiting the exhibition tomorrow.”
Edith grinned. “Ah, I understand now. You want me to brave the cold air and possibly dying of the flu to ensure you have a chance to see Lord Wycliffe again.”
“Edith!” She felt warmth on her cheeks.
“Of course, then you can tell him in person that Lady Cairs is our Cupid.”
She raised her chin. “Exactly.”
“And since I’m risking my health, you will agree to come to supper tomorrow evening. Alicia is throwing a dinner party for Lord and Lady Kettering.”
“A whole evening listening to Alicia and Lady Kettering chatter on?” She frowned. “Well then. You’re purchasing our sweets at Gunter’s.”
* * * * *
When Cecil returned to Curzon Street pleasantly full after his delicious luncheon at the George and Vulture, he was greeted by Bones, who helped him with his outerwear and then followed his employer into the drawing room.
“Any news to share?” Cecil asked his companion as he took a seat in his favorite chair and propped his feet on a footstool.
“The story of your burning the carriage clocks has spread throughout London. As has news of the burglary.”
“That is a good thing,” he replied. “I want you to find out if Lady Louisa has any plans in Town tomorrow.”
