Page 76 of Tempting the Earl

“Are you certain?” he finally managed.

Davies gave a curt nod. “About as certain as we can be.”

“Where is he? Is he well?”

“He seems to be hale and hearty. He may not be for long, however.”

Colin stiffened. “What does that mean?”

“He was recently arrested and is currently being held at Bow Street. He’s scheduled for examination by the magistrate this afternoon.”

“For what crime?”

There was a tense pause before Davies replied. “Murder, my lord.”

Colin’s heart stopped. He didn’t know when Ainsworth had slipped her hand into his, but as her grip tightened, he was grateful for the gesture of support. And for the fact that she managed to ask the question he couldn’t seem to form.

“Is he guilty?”

Davies spared her a flickering glance. “That’s what the magistrate will attempt to determine.”

“But is he?” Colin pressed.

Davies cleared his throat. “I don’t say this to raise false hope, my lord, but at this time, it’s questionable. From what my employer has managed to discover since learning of the arrest last evening, there are a few details which don’t quite add up. He must clarify his rough suspicions but there’s no guarantee he’ll uncover anything to successfully clear Owen. He’s just as likely to find evidence that could convict the boy.”

“What can I do?” Colin asked. There had to be something.

“I recommend you go straight to Bow Street and use your influence to delay the examination as long as possible. Should Owen be found guilty by the magistrate, there might not be much that can be done for him. Any extra time you’re able buy the lad could save his life.”

“Of course. I’ll leave immediately.”

Davies nodded. “I must be on my way, as well, but I’ll be in touch as the situation develops.”

Colin stepped aside to let the man pass but then stopped him with a lifted hand. “Before you go, is there anything to report on Mr. Thomas?”

“As of this morning, Thomas remains a guest of the White Crow Inn, but all appearances suggest he intends to depart London today.”

Colin nodded. The news wasn’t unexpected, yet it added another weight to the sinking feeling in his stomach.

Once Mr. Davies left and they were alone in the library, Ainsworth turned to face him. Obvious concern filled her gaze.

“This isnae good news.”

“No, it’s not,” he agreed.

“Tell me what I can do and I’ll do it.”

For a moment, he allowed himself to revel in the amazed gratitude her fierce words triggered inside him. It was not something he was accustomed to—having someone in his life who’d so adamantly go to battle with him. No hesitation. Just full support.

He lifted her hand—still held firmly in his—and brought it to his lips where he pressed a kiss to her palm. “There is nothing you can do, but I appreciate the offer.”

A stubborn but quiet determination lit in her eyes. “I could go speak with Mr. Thomas. If he kent what Mr. Owen—his brother—was facing, he might not wish to leave London just yet. Perhaps he could help in some way.” She gestured helplessly. “At the very least, he should be made aware of the situation.”

Her frustration was obvious, but Colin shook his head. “Mr. Thomas made his decision. He wants to be left alone.”

She frowned, clearly not ready to give up. “But if he kent—”

“No.” The single word was firm and decisive. It had to be. “I won’t burden him further with this news. I should get a quick note to Bentley before I leave, however. He possesses significant influence of his own. Perhaps our combined efforts could bring about a favorable outcome with the magistrate. I’m sorry,” he added, “I must go. I’ll be back as soon as I can to let you know how everything went.”

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