Page 70 of The Duke of Lies
“We were sorry to hear of Cuddy’s death,” Verity said.
“Yes, yes, such a shock for Blackburn,” Jeffers said. “I know Mr. Strader was employed here until recently. Have you any idea as to who might have wanted to harm him?” He looked between Verity and Kit, but his gaze settled on Kit.
“None, I’m afraid, but then I’ve only been home a month or so.”
“Rumor has it you were conscripted, but I can’t see how that’s possible.” He chuckled, but there was a note of unease in the tone of it.
“In this case, the rumor is accurate,” Kit said evenly. “I spent the last six and a half years at sea, and I’m glad to finally have my legs on land.”
Verity knew that wasn’t true. In fact, she suspected he missed his ship and sailing more than he realized. It wasn’t being a captain—at least she didn’t think that was it. She thought being duke and running an estate rather fulfilled his desire to lead. And he was so very good at it. Pride pushed at her chest as she slid a glance at him.
“I bet you are,” Jeffers said. “And I’m sure everyone here is…glad to have you back.” His slight hesitation before saying “glad” wasn’t lost on Verity.
“Actually, we are more than glad,” she said, tucking her arm through Kit’s. “His Grace has returned quite changed.”
Jeffers now looked mildly uncomfortable, but he summoned a smile just the same. “How splendid. Well, if you think of anything regarding Mr. Strader, I hope you’ll let me know.”
“Actually, I should tell you that we believe he was embezzling from the estate,” Kit said, shocking Verity with his forthrightness. “That’s why I dismissed him. A review of the accounts revealed discrepancies.”
The constable’s gray eyes narrowed, and his brow puckered. He nodded several times. “I see. I see. I must say I’m not entirely surprised to hear this. Mr. Strader’s reputation in town was less than savory, particularly since he left your employ. I’ve learned he regularly met with a pair of miscreants at the Sheep’s Head.”
Kit leaned forward slightly with interest. “May I ask who? I should dearly like to recover at least a portion of the funds Cuddy stole. Perhaps these men could help.”
“I doubt that—they seemed to be of a lower class. Or so Thompson—the barkeep at the Sheep’s Head—said. He said they met Strader in the pub once a quarter or so. Oh, and they aren’t from here, so good luck finding them.”
“Did Thompson know where they were from?”
“He thinks London, based on their accents.” Jeffers let out a soft chuckle. “Can’t imagine you’d find them there, however.”
Kit’s answering smile was mild and brief. “No, I can’t imagine I would. Thank you for the information, just the same. Do you think it’s possible these men had anything to do with Cuddy’s death?”
Jeffers stroked his chin. “It’s possible, I suppose, but Thompson said they were in town a week or so ago. He doubted they’d be back so soon—he was adamant they showed up once a quarter or thereabouts.”
Beau stuck his head out the window of the coach. “Are we going or not?” He glanced toward the constable but didn’t seem to care that they had a visitor.
Jeffers chuckled again. “Someone’s ready to be on his way.”
Verity narrowed her eyes toward Beau but then smiled. “Yes, we’re going to London. He’s never been.”
Beau grinned. “I’m going to the museum and to have ices and to the Tower of London!”
The constable looked toward the coach. “Sounds like a wonderful trip. Have a grand time.” He returned his attention to Verity and Kit. “I’ll be on my way, then. Thank you for speaking with me. Safe travels to you.”
“Thank you, Jeffers.” Kit reached out and shook the man’s hand, which elicited a flash of surprise in the constable’s eyes.
Jeffers gripped his hand with a nod. “Thank you, Your Grace.” He bowed to Verity once more before turning and going to his horse.
Verity waited until he was on his way through the gate before taking her arm from Kit’s and turning to him. “Why did you tell him about the embezzlement?” she asked quietly.
“Because he could easily find out from Thomas.” His gaze locked on hers. “I would have told him the truth about killing Cuddy, but I know how badly you want to get to London.”
She leaned into him. “So you will be the duke and our family will be safe.”
He bent his head and kissed her.
“Now you kiss toomuch,” Beau whined. “Can wego?”
Verity felt Kit smile against her mouth as laughter broke them apart. “Yes, we can go.” She looked up at Kit with a surplus of emotion—some of which she wasn’t sure she wanted to define, so she didn’t. “To London, where everyone will welcome the returned Duke of Blackburn.”
