Page 12 of If Not for the Duke

“And I’m not sure it would’ve changed the outcome. If only I could remember that.”

Norah drew a deep breath. “Do you really find Renwick upsetting?”

“Unsettling might be a better word.” She dismissed the concern with a wave of her hand. “Pay me no mind. I also find Lady Bernice’s interest in Oak Island unsettling. She finds the whole thing romantic.”

“Hmm. If she lived it for a few years, she might not.” Norah seemed to consider the issue further. “I need only to think of Simon to understand the curiosity that drives her. Perhaps having a purpose is part of its appeal for her. So few ladies have one.”

“I suppose I should mention this to Ella,” Lena said.

“That might be best in case something comes of it.” Norah bit her lower lip. “Do be careful though.”

“How do you mean?”

“She’s having a few contractions. The doctor has suggested she take care and get plenty of rest.”

Lena’s heart thumped painfully. “Is there more? Are you telling me everything?”

“Of course, I am. I called on her yesterday, and she mentioned that Marbury is hovering over her to make certain she doesn’t overdo things. It’s driving her mad.”

Lena prodded her thoughts as she considered the news but felt nothing out of the ordinary. Unfortunately, that didn’t mean there wasn’t anything to worry about. “Shall I mention Lady Bernice’s interest in passing? Without all the details.”

“Exactly.” Norah nodded. “Besides, what could come of Lady Bernice’s research? I’m sure she’ll only pursue it until something more interesting comes along.”

Lena nodded but worried that it wouldn’t be so simple.

*

Sterling finished readingthe latest letter from Walter Clarke and smiled, pleased with the man’s progress. He certainly seemed to know what he was about. He was already settled on Oak Island and was conducting a thorough survey of the area. His letter stated that more shafts had been dug than expected by previous searchers, including David Wright.

Clarke had included a map of what he’d found thus far, proposed three suggested areas of focus, and prioritized them. The first was the shaft nearest a tree carving, though Clarke wasn’t convinced the indecipherable markings had anything to do with the location of the buried treasure.

Sterling thought it interesting that Miss Wright had said a block and tackle had been found hanging from the tree. What sort of pirate would bother to bury a treasure and leave such an obvious sign behind for others to find? He jotted a note to remind him to mention the block and tackle to Clarke. Those sorts of details might change the priority of the shafts the man was going to search.

Though Sterling had been tempted to ask Miss Wright how many shafts her father had dug, he’d held back. He wanted Clarke to form his own opinion after having a chance to thoroughly examine the area.

Sterling wasn’t ready to disclose the treasure hunt. He rather liked sharing the secret with Bernie. Once the information became public, he would face numerous questions and comments—and criticism—from fellow Society members.

He wondered how Miss Wright would take the news. Not well, if he were to guess. Perhaps she’d be willing to share insights once the surprise wore off. He’d heard rumors of her father’s journals that detailed his search. Would she be willing to share them? While the idea was intriguing, he doubted she would.

A knock sounded on his study door, interrupting his musings. “Enter.”

Bernie peeked her head around the door. “Are you busy?”

“Not at all. Join me.” He detested how timid Bernie could be at times. That was his father’s fault for always barking at her. “What are you doing today?”

“Aunt Edith and I are going to a museum later.”

“Oh? Which one?”

“Miss Wright recommended one called the Museum of Olden Things. Apparently, the owner is a friend of her brother-in-law.”

“Vanbridge or Marbury?” He knew both as they were members of the Royal Geological Society.

“Vanbridge. I suppose it makes sense to ask since the marquess also owns a museum.” Bernie settled into the chair in front of his desk. “I hope I have the chance to meet Miss Wright’s other sister. Aunt Edith says she’s heard nothing but good things about the Countess of Marbury.”

“I have no doubt you will. It seems as if you and Miss Wright are well on your way to becoming friends.”

“We shall see.” Bernie stared in the distance, her brow puckered.

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