Page 39 of Made for the Marquess (Second Sons of London 4)

“I will accompany you back to Kingwood,” he stated. “Give me a few minutes to let my valet and the staff here know. Why don’t you go to the kitchens and let Cook feed you?”

“Thank you, my lord,” the butler said, rising. He left the room.

Percy’s first thought was not about all the work to be done once he returned to Kingwood but rather how he would have to miss today’s tea with Minta.

Removing a piece of parchment from his desk, he wrote a carefully worded note to Lady Westlake, informing her of the circumstances and that he could not make today’s tea since he would be returning to Essex indefinitely.

He also composed a quick note to Louisa, telling her what had occurred and asking her to share the news with the others. If he sent word to Ev or Spence, they would dash over and either insist on accompanying him home or tell him he couldn’t go because of his obligation to attend the Season.

Ringing for Tate, Percy gave the butler both pieces of correspondence and asked that they be delivered immediately. Then he explained the situation and how he did not know if or when he might return to London.

“I understand, my lord. Everything will be taken care of here. Please do not worry.” The butler hesitated and then said, “Might I be so bold as to tell you of my cousin, a Mr. Rowell?”

“What of him?”

“He recently wrapped up employment as the steward for the Earl of Newcombe’s estate. I know he is very good at what he does, my lord.”

“Then why is he out of work?” questioned Percy.

“It is a delicate situation, my lord. The earl passed away and his son, the new earl, claimed the title. He has a younger brother who has a tendency to . . . run a bit wild. And so the new earl, in order to keep an eye on his brother, has made him the estate’s manager.”

Awareness filled Percy. “So, your capable cousin is out of a job.”

“Exactly, my lord.”

“I will consider him for the position, Tate. Where is Rowell now/”

“He is staying with his sister here in London, my lord.”

Percy thought a moment and then said, “Write a note to him and have him come here at once. He can travel to Kingwood with me. We shall talk on the way and I will pick his brain and see exactly what he knows. If I am pleased, I will take him about the estate and hear his opinions regarding it. I cannot guarantee him employment.”

The butler’s face lit with a smile. “You don’t have to do so, my lord. Rowell is so competent that I believe he will convince you he is the man for the position.”

“Very well. I shall work in my study until he arrives and we will depart immediately. Inform Huston of my plans and let the rest of the staff know as you see fit.”

Percy sat behind his desk, regretting several things. That he had pushed Smith to his limits. That he would miss today’s tea with Minta. That Lord Boxling would now have the advantage. But his tenants and Kingwood must come first. It was an obligation he took seriously.

He only hoped Tate’s cousin would be the answer he sought and allow Percy to return to London so that he might have a ghost of a chance with Minta Nicholls.

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