Page 41 of A Murder in Mayfair
A pause. Too long.
"There were visitors," he admitted finally. “Some men of business. Others, gentlemen of quality, if you take my meaning. Per Lord Walsh’s orders, they were admitted to the small sitting room.”
“And did Lord Walsh meet with them willingly?"
Another pause, deeper now.
"He was … reluctant," Anstruther said carefully. “But he did agree to talk to most of them. Not all, though. Some were denied entry.”
"Who were these men?"
He provided me with several names. Some I recognized; others I did not. “There were raised voices on more than one occasion."
“Did you perhaps note what the discussions were about?”
“I did not hear the entire discussions. But I did catch several words.”
“Of course.” He was reluctant to admit he’d eavesdropped, like any good butler would. “And what were those words?”
“Thief, card sharp, swindler.”
None of his visitors had a good opinion of Walsh, that was certain.
“Anything else you can think of, Mr. Anstruther?”
“Not at the moment, milady.”
“If you think of anything else, could you please send word to Rosehaven House?”
“Of course, milady.”
"Thank you, Mr. Anstruther. I would like to speak with Lord Walsh’s valet now, if I may."
He hesitated but finally dipped his head and rang a bell.
Moments later, a thin, nervous-looking young man entered the room. His livery hung loosely on his frame, and he twisted his hands with visible anxiety.
"This is Phipps," Anstruther said shortly. "Lord Walsh’s valet."
I smiled warmly. "Thank you for seeing me, Mr. Phipps. I know this must be a difficult time."
Phipps swallowed hard. "Yes, milady."
"I would only like to ask a few questions. You were close to Lord Walsh—you saw him daily. Did you notice any changes in him recently?"
Phipps shifted on his feet. "He was ... troubled, milady. Jumpier than usual. Locked his chambers more often. Kept looking over his shoulder."
"Was there anyone he argued with?"
The young man hesitated. "Not in front of me, no. But …”
He darted a glance toward Anstruther.
“You must tell Lady Rosalynd what you know, Phipps.”
“Yes, of course.” Phipps turned back to me
"But?" I prompted gently.
