Page 69 of If Not for the Duke

Marbury shrugged. “I can’t remember the name. What truly matters is what he said.”

“What might that be?” Ludham asked.

“We wanted to give you the benefit of the doubt and speak with you directly,” Sterling said, rather than answering Ludham’s question. “We wouldn’t want to rely on rumors.”

Ludham’s gaze shifted back and forth between them as if trying to decide how to respond. “Rumors about Clarke?”

“And his progress on Oak Island.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know anything about it. Sorry I can’t be of more help.”

“We know Winslow is going to see Johnson,” Sterling said. “What does he hope to learn?”

Ludham stared, alarm widening his eyes. “Johnson?”

“Surely you don’t think the man can provide additional information about where to dig on the island,” Sterling said.

“Nothing of the sort.” Ludham shook his head, though his demeanor suggested he was lying.

Based on the conversation Sterling had overheard, he knew he was.

Ludham gave a one-shouldered shrug as if relenting. “Winslow happens to be acquainted with Johnson as he went to school with him. I believe he wanted to speak with him about the history of the island, mainly about Captain Kidd.”

“Kidd?” Marbury frowned, while Sterling watched him with interest. Everyone knew of Marbury’s interest in the pirate. “Surely not in connection with Oak Island.”

Ludham smiled but it wasn’t especially friendly. “I didn’t really pay much attention. You’ll have to ask Winslow.”

“Why are you and Winslow interested in Clarke’s progress?” Sterling asked.

Ludham paused again, hesitating. “It should come as no surprise that Clarke is interested in learning anything that might prove helpful with his search. He asked Winslow to see what he could discover.” His gaze met Sterling’s. “Even you can’t find fault with that, Your Grace.”

Sterling held back the urge to say he certainly could. He preferred to be consulted before actions were taken. But when he’d hired Clarke, he’d been aware of his reputation for being independent. He should appreciate that the man had taken the initiative to discover more.

There was more to Clarke’s actions than Ludham was sharing. Something wasn’t right. He wouldn’t claim to have his cook’s supposed ability, but he knew when something smelled foul. And this did.

“And?” Marbury prodded. “Has Winslow discovered anything helpful thus far?”

“Not that I’m aware of.” Ludham folded his hands over his stomach. Sterling thought his relaxed pose feigned. “I suppose Clarke hopes that Winslow’s conversation with Johnson might shed some light.”

“Doubtful that Johnson will provide meaningful details that he didn’t already try when he was digging,” Marbury said. His amused smile seemed to irritate Ludham, based on the way the viscount scowled as he glared at the earl.

Marbury’s remark eased Sterling’s upset. He was right. Numerous people had looked at length for written evidence of treasure on Oak Island with no success. The chances of Ludham and Winslow making any discoveries seemed unlikely.

However, their efforts made him even more suspicious of Clarke. Sterling doubted Clarke’s next report would mention anything about his own attempts to find more information.

With a tip of his head toward Marbury to signal they should leave, Sterling stood. “I appreciate your time, Ludham.” He didn’t bother to suggest the viscount let them know if anything further was discovered.

Sterling walked out of the club, followed by Marbury, and paused on the steps, glancing about to make certain no one could overhear. “That wasn’t particularly helpful.”

Marbury shook his head. “No, but one never knows when something learned will be helpful later. Perhaps that will prove true with this as well.”

Sterling nodded. “Thank you.”

“Happy to help. Now, I’m going to have dinner with my wife.” Marbury bowed. “Good evening, Your Grace.”

Sterling bid him good night and stepped into his waiting carriage, but his thoughts remained on the conversation with Ludham. He needed to discover more about what Ludham and Winslow were up to.

Chapter Eighteen

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