Page 83 of When the Viscount Seduces
She shook her head. “I wasn’t able to find him. However, I did speak with his musician assistant. He’s called Nott, and he plays music for Tremblay’s dancing lessons.”
Shefford, who sat opposite Jo, leaned forward. “And what did he say?”
“He confirmed Tremblay and Miss Worsley had an affair, and that Tremblay was paid to keep silent about it,” Jo said looking at them both intently. “He wasnotaware that Miss Worsley was with child. I do wonder if Tremblay even knows he’s to be a father.”
Lazarus smacked his palm on the table. “I knew it wasn’t me.”
“How can you be certain it was Tremblay?” Shefford asked. He glanced at Lazarus. “Sorry to cast doubt, but we should be absolute in our investigation. Perhaps she had other lovers.”
“I suppose that’s possible, but she was, according to Nott, rapturously in love with Tremblay. She wrote him letters that Tremblay would read in a mocking voice to Nott.” Jo grimaced.“I feel so badly for Miss Worsley, as it seems her affections were not reciprocated.”
“And yet, he was quite happy to bed her,” Lazarus said with disgust. That was a true reprobate. Was it any wonder she preferred to marry someone else?
“The timing is also perfect, as far as aligning with your fox-hunting party,” Jo continued. “The affair with Tremblay occurred from late October into December. Apparently, he and Nott visited Haverstock Hall the first week of December to continue Miss Worsley’s instruction. That was when he was dismissed. Nott presumes they were caught, but Tremblay didn’t share the details with him.”
“But Tremblay told him he’d been paid to be quiet?” Shefford asked.
“Yes, because he gave a portion to Nott to ensure his silence as well. However, it seems it was averysmall portion, as Tremblay lived a rather lavish lifestyle until recently. Perhaps he is now out of funds. Nott seemed a trifle peeved.”
Shefford turned his head to Lazarus. “I say we continue with our plan to seek out Tremblay.”
“Agreed.” Lazarus couldn’t wait to find the man. “Jo, where can we find him?”
“Ifyou can find him, but perhaps you’ll have better luck at some of his usual haunts around Leicester Square. He lives on Gerrard Street.” She gave them the number of his lodgings and also provided Nott’s address.
“Jo, you are a marvel.” Lazarus leaned over and kissed her cheek.
“You can’t go about kissing other women anymore,” Shefford said in a mock scolding tone. He looked toward Jo. “He’s gone and got himself betrothed.” He rolled his eyes and scoffed.
Jo grinned. “Congratulations. I was not present when Gwen returned this afternoon, but I will assume she shared the happy news with Min and Ellis, who were.”
“Once I deal with this situation and put it behind me, I will call on her father,” Lazarus said, wishing he didn’t have to wait. “I am hoping that will be tomorrow.”
Shefford stood again. “I don’t see why not. Since tomorrow is when you are supposed to offer for Miss Worsley else she will inform her father and grandfather, we need to conclude this matter.”
Jo rose, and Lazarus did the same, meeting her gaze. “I can’t thank you enough for your assistance in this. You are helpful in a great many ways. Some man will be lucky to have you one day.”
A dark laugh leapt from her wide mouth. “That man doesn’t exist. I am as committed to remaining as unwed as Shefford there.” She gave him a commiserative nod, and he returned it.
“Solidarity,” he said in a low tone. He looked to Lazarus. “Come, our prey awaits.”
Lazarus anticipated his capture.
CHAPTER 19
Neither Tremblay nor Nott had been at their lodgings or anywhere else Lazarus and Shefford had looked last night. They’d finally gone home in defeat hours after midnight.
Lazarus intended to try again this morning, but Tremblay was still not at home. Nor was there anyone Lazarus could ask who could perhaps indicate where he was or when he would return.
Frustrated beyond words, Lazarus made his way to Nott’s lodging, hoping for a better result.
The man lived in a small set of rooms above an apothecary. Lazarus climbed the two flights of stairs to the second floor and knocked loudly on the door. “Mr. Nott?”
Lazarus was fairly certain he heard movement inside and was prepared to break down the door if the man didn’t answer. Thankfully, he did.
Exhaling with relief, Lazarus tried to set aside his irritation. He would get more out of the man if he could be charming or at least pleasant. He summoned a smile. “Good morning. Pardon my interruption at this early hour.” Glancing over the short, slight man’s head, Lazarus saw a valise in the middle of the floor.Was he going somewhere? He met Nott’s gaze and noted the apprehension in their blue depths. “I am Lord Somerton.”
“Good morning, my lord.” He twitched his shoulders nervously. “It is rather early, and I’ve a coach to catch.”
