Page 41 of Murder in Matrimony
Amelia nodded in understanding. “A conundrum to be sure, for businessmen have to eat as well.”
“Mrs. Rothschild knows the problem firsthand,” said Mrs. Lewis. “Her husband owns the public house. Has for many years.”
“I atone for it by doing work here,” Mrs. Rothschild was quick to add.
“Most people need to make a living. It is nothing to be atoned for.” Amelia smiled gently.
“I have much to atone for, Lady Amesbury.” Mrs. Rothschild was resolute, like a sinner determined to make reparations for past sins. “My friend was attacked after working in our pub. She lost the use of her leg, and when she did, her husband left her. She had no children, and her parents are long dead. Now she survives on the charity of others, doing laundry when she is able. I shall never forget it, and I shall never forgive myself.”
Mrs. Lewis put a hand on hers. “Oh, Louisa.”
The physical contact was no comfort to Mrs. Rothschild. She kept her gaze on the cross at the front of the church, determined to do what she must to make amends with God.
Obviously, Mrs. Rothschild felt an enormous amount of guilt for the accident. It could have been the reason she was so devout. It also might have accounted for her wish to see her daughter gainfully employed somewhere else besides the public house. Having her daughter die must have only compounded her woes. Grief could make one a bit unhinged. Amelia understood that not only from her own grief but also from the vast number of letters she received on the subject. The church was Mrs. Rothschild’s respite, and Amelia imagined she would be willing to do whatever was necessary to apprehend Mr. Cross’s murderer.
But was Amelia willing to add to her burdens with her own? As she stared at the mother, so strong yet so fragile, she wasn’t as sure as when she first entered the church.
EIGHTEEN
Dear Lady Agony,
Recently, a visitor of mine was accosted by a beggar at King’s Cross Station. He had no more descended the platform than encountered the trouble. How am I to rave about our palaces and architecture when this behavior runs rampant? More must be done to secure our great city. I know not how, but I believe parliament must play a larger role.
Devotedly,
Distressing Scenario
Dear Distressing Scenario,
The greatness in England does not lie in our palaces or architecture but in our hospitals, infirmaries, and orphanages. It manifests itself in the people who support them. For what good does stone do me? Give me the living heart of a generous person. That is what makes me feel great. As to parliament helping, you would have a better chance of sprouting wings and flying.
Yours in Secret,
Lady Agony
Mrs. Rothschild put the empty biscuit basket in the middle of the table, and the women in her prayer group added their contributions. They had made socks, gloves, hats, and scarves for a local charity that assisted orphans. Despite having little themselves, they gave of their time wholeheartedly, each item tenderly made. Amelia and Kitty had nothing to add, so they committed to a monetary donation.
The women were grateful for their commitment, so gratefulthat an observer would think the money was going to the women themselves and not an organization. Mrs. Lewis thanked God for their spontaneous appearance at tonight’s meeting, and Mrs. Rothschild quickly wrote down the name of the charity on two separate pieces of paper, one for Amelia and one for Kitty.
“Our dear Mr. Cross is surely smiling down on you.” Mrs. Rothschild slid the paper to Amelia. “The orphanage was one of his passion projects. He contributed to it just days before his death.”
Amelia saw an opportunity to investigate and took it. “Where did you see him. Here?”
She nodded, and a little wrinkle appeared between her eyebrows, making them appear sharper. “Our conversation was a particular one. He wanted to introduce me to someone, a person who he thought might be able to help me.”
An idea struck Amelia, and her heartbeat doubled. If true, her presence was truly serendipitous. “He did? Did he say whom?”
“No … yes, a woman.” A faint smile flittered across her lips. “It is not much, but it is all I have. He referenced the person as ashe.”
Mr. Cross said he wanted Amelia to help someone in Wapping.It could have been Mrs. Rothschild. “Did he say why he wanted you to meet her?”
“He didn’t suggest ameeting; he suggested aletter. It was all rather secretive.” She frowned. “Very unlike Mr. Cross, but he was certain this person could get to the bottom of my problem.”
Amelia and Kitty shared a knowing look. The person he meant was Lady Agony. Amelia was exactly where she needed to be. All she needed to do was figure out why.
Mrs. Evans interjected with a plump finger. “Perhaps that is due to the nature of your problem. A woman might know how better to help than a man.”
“What problem?” Kitty asked.
