THE CALLING CARD MURDERS

ELIZA THOMSON INVESTIGATES

(BOOK 9)

VL MCBEATH

The Calling Card Murders

By VL McBeath

Copyright © 2024 by VL McBeath.

Published by Valyn Publishing.

For more about this author please visit:

https://vlmcbeath.com

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the author at:

https://vlmcbeath.com/contact/

*

Editing services provided by Susan Cunningham (www.perfectproseservices.com)

Cover design: BookCoversbyMelody

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ISBNs:

978-1-913838-36-2 (Ebook Edition)

978-1-913838-37-9 (Paperback)

Main category - FICTION / Historical Mysteries

Other category - FICTION / Crime & Mystery

Previous book in the

Eliza Thomson Investigates

series

Eliza Thomson Investigates:

A historical murder mysteries series:

A Deadly Tonic (A Novella)

Murder in Moreton

Death of an Honourable Gent

Dying for a Garden Party

A Scottish Fling

The Palace Murder

Death by the Sea

Murder at the Marquee

A Christmas Murder (A Novella)

CHAPTER ONE

Eliza Thomson accepted her father’s hand as she stepped down from his carriage and onto the driveway of his large detached house in Richmond, London. She waited as her friend Connie Appleton joined them and they bid the coachman good evening before Mr Bell escorted them to the front door. Mrs Wood, the housekeeper, was waiting for them.

“Welcome home, Mr Bell. Have you had a pleasant break?”

“Very nice, thank you, but it’s good to be home. I can’t hide away forever.”

Eliza stared at him. “I hope that doesn’t mean you’re not travelling back with us on Sunday? What if Lord Lowton turns up?”

“What if he doesn’t? We’ve no idea what his plans are, and he’s unlikely to do anything rash when the police are watching him.”

“I still don’t like it.” Eliza handed her coat to the waiting Mrs Wood.

“You should know your father by now. He doesn’t like to be told what to do.” She grinned at him. “You go through to the drawing room and I’ll bring a tea tray for you.”

“That’s just what we need. Thank you.” Eliza wandered to the large comfortable room at the back of the house and took a seat on the settee facing the newly lit fire. Connie shuddered as she sat beside her.

“Winter’s certainly on its way now. I need to get some more coal next week.”

“At least you’ll have Sergeant Cooper to keep you warm before long.”

“Eliza!” Connie’s cheeks reddened as she checked the room for Mr Bell’s presence. “You can’t say things like that, especially not when your father’s around.”

“What’s that?” Mr Bell blustered into the room and took a chair next to the hearth. “Have I missed something?”

Eliza giggled. “I was teasing Connie, and she was worried you’d overhear.”

“You can leave me out of it, if it’s made Connie’s cheeks go so red. You really shouldn’t, Eliza.”

“I’m sorry. I couldn’t help it. Anyway, going back to Lord Lowton…”

“Listen, I’m not worried about him. What’s he going to do? Come to the house and attack me? You’re letting your imagination run away with you. You should be more concerned about Henry’s wedding. We won’t be able to avoid him there.”

“Don’t think I’ve not been worrying about that, too.”

“If you want my opinion, you should extend an olive branch to them before the big day. Break the ice, so to speak.”

Eliza groaned. “How do I do that? I can hardly turn up at Lowton Hall without an invitation.”

“Write to Caroline. She was always perfectly reasonable, and she’s still your friend.”

“Was, you mean. You’re well aware we didn’t part on the best of terms.”

Connie glanced across at her. “She might not still be cross with you, though. Henry told you how much she enjoyed Lord Lowton being away. She may thank you.”

“I doubt it.”

“Ah, here you are.” Mr Bell stood up as Mrs Wood joined them. “Just leave it on the table. I’m sure we can manage.”

“Very good, sir. Before I go, may I ask what time young Dr Thomson will be joining us?”

Eliza glanced at the clock on the mantelpiece. “Around six o’clock. He said he’d aim to leave London at about five.”

“We’ll prepare the dinner for a quarter past then, unless you have any objections.”

“None at all. Thank you.”

Once the housekeeper left, Mr Bell retook his seat. “You should ask Caroline to meet you in London. I’m sure she’d like an excuse to do a spot of shopping.”

“I suppose I could. I just worry about the sort of reception I’ll get.”

“She may well be thinking the same thing. You’ll have to get this sorted out if you’re to be related by marriage.”

“You’re right. I’ll send her a letter when I get home. The wedding isn’t until next March, so there’s no rush. Besides, I’ve an outfit to choose this week for a much more urgent ceremony. I’d like to see Connie happily settled before I make any more arrangements.”

Connie grinned. “There’s less than three weeks to go now.”

“Which is why my new dress is so urgent! Now, let me get this tea poured and we can discuss where we’re going tomorrow.”

The clock hadn’t chimed for six o’clock when there was a rap on the front door, and a minute later, Eliza’s son, Henry, joined them. “Good evening.”

She smiled up at him. “You made good time. You must have had energetic horses.”

He groaned as he took his seat. “Unfortunately not. I was able to leave early. A patient I was operating on died on the table…”

“Oh dear.”

“We knew it was a risk, but he would have passed naturally if we’d done nothing, so we took the chance.”

Mr Bell got to his feet. “One of the hazards of the job, I suppose. Can I get you anything to steady your nerves?”

“Only if you’re having one. I need to get back tonight.”

Eliza looked at him. “You’re not staying?”

“I’m afraid I can’t. I’m back in theatre at eight in the morning.”

“Oh… I’d hoped you’d at least stay long enough to escort us to London.”

“You’re welcome to leave with me at seven o’clock.”

Mr Bell laughed as he handed Henry a sherry. “Then what would you do with them? The shops won’t be open at that hour.”

“My eyes won’t be open either.” Eliza gave her father a playful scowl. “Never mind, we’ll go by ourselves.”

Connie’s jaw dropped. “What about Lord Lowton? We can’t risk running into him on our own.”

“My dear Connie, the chance of meeting him in the women’s section of a department store is so remote it’s not worth worrying about.”

Mr Bell ran a hand over his moustache. “She has a point, though. You probably shouldn’t be travelling to London on your own.”

“We did the other week when we met Inspector Adams.”

“That was different. I put you into the carriage, and he met you at the other end. Who’s going to escort you when you get to the shops?”

Eliza looked at Connie and then back to her father. “Do we need an escort?”

Mr Bell turned to Henry. “Have you heard anything about Lord Lowton and his whereabouts?”

Henry shrugged. “He’s been spending a lot of time at Lowton Hall since he got home, but I couldn’t tell you if he’s been to London.”

Eliza cocked her head to one side. “Has he had any contact with Lord Beaufort?”

“I expect so, but I’ve not heard.”

“You were at Lord Albert’s wedding last week. Didn’t you see them there?”

“I saw Lord Lowton, but he was busy with the other guests, and I didn’t want to get caught up in a conversation with him.”

“Didn’t you ask him for Lady Alice’s hand in marriage?”

“There was no need. I asked Lady Caroline, while he was still in jail. Apparently, his being in prison is a valid reason for not asking his permission.”

Eliza’s forehead creased. “You’re sure?”

“I’ve not checked with a solicitor, if that’s what you mean, but it seems reasonable to me. I could hardly visit him.”

“And Caroline was happy to give permission when she knew he was due for release?”

“She said it was time there was new blood in the family.”

“That’s something, I suppose.”

Henry studied her. “What’s the matter?”

“I’m worried about seeing them again, that’s what. The last time we saw them, they ordered us from their house.”

“That was years ago.”

“It may have been, but we’ve not even exchanged Christmas cards since.”

Mr Bell interrupted. “I suggested that she write to Lady Caroline to arrange a luncheon before the wedding. Do you think your future mother-in-law would be receptive to that?”

“I don’t see why not. She’s got a lot to thank you for.”

Eliza huffed. “I wouldn’t say that.”

Mr Bell shook his head. “You don’t know that. Besides, you need to do something if you plan on going to the wedding.”

“All right, I will, but only once we get back to Moreton. I feel safer there.”

Henry rolled his eyes. “I don’t know why. There was a murder there last month.”

“Don’t say that. Connie’s nervous enough as it is. And that’s not what I meant. I just don’t want to bump into Lord Lowton.”

Henry raised an eyebrow. “Why did you come to London, then?”

“Because your mother wants a new dress for my wedding. She can’t possibly be matron of honour in any of the outfits in her wardrobe.” Connie tittered at her own impersonation of Eliza. “Besides, this will be my last time away from home without Frank. Sergeant Cooper, that is. I feel much safer when he’s with me.”

“You’ve no need to be nervous. I doubt either of you are in Lord Lowton’s sights. To be honest, I’m not sure anyone is. He’s angry, but he’s unlikely to do anything about it. Not when he knows what the consequences would be.”

I hope you’re right.” Eliza stood up as the gong sounded for dinner. “Shall we go through? You can tell me the arrangements for your wedding once we’re seated.”

CHAPTER TWO

The doorman of Harrods, London’s premier department store, gave a slight bow and held the glass door as Eliza and Connie walked through, with Mr Bell close behind. Eliza turned and smiled at her father.

“It’s very kind of you to treat me like this.”

“Who else do I have to spend my money on?”

“It’s still more than generous. Archie will be delighted, too.”

Mr Bell chuckled. “I’m sure he will. Now, where would you like to go?”

She studied a sign at the bottom of the uniquely modern moving staircase. “Shall we try the first floor? I should be able to get a hat and stole from there, and we can ask where the rest of the ladies’ outfits are.”

“I’ll pop up to the fourth floor to open a tab for you with accounts … and to make sure you survive the staircase.” He grinned as she rolled her eyes.

“I’m sure we can manage … but a tab would be most welcome. Thank you.”

“I’m glad I can help with something. Will you be long?”

Eliza looked for a clock, but when she didn’t see one, asked her father the time.

“Half past ten.”

“Would you mind if we had luncheon here? I’ve heard they have an excellent dining room on the fourth floor. You can join us, of course.”

He laughed. “That’s most kind. Do you expect your deliberations to take you until one o’clock?”

Eliza glanced around. “It has so many floors and departments it would be a shame not to visit them all.”

“Very well. I’ll find a coffee shop and read the newspaper while you enjoy yourselves. I’ll see you at one.”

At quarter to one, Eliza stepped from the moving staircase and put a hand to her chest as Connie joined her.

“We’ve finally made it to the top … and we’re barely out of breath!”

Connie didn’t raise her head until she’d skipped from the end of the conveyor belt. “My arms are worn out from gripping the handrails. I didn’t want to slide down the incline.”

“That is a disadvantage of being here on a Tuesday. There are not enough people to keep us upright.”

Connie laughed. “We need to remember that for next time.”

Eliza glanced up at the clock in front of them. “We’re a bit early yet. Father may not be here.”

“We can always do some browsing on this floor.”

Eliza grimaced. “I’d better not spend any more money.”

Connie grinned. “He said you could treat yourself.”

“I still don’t like to take advantage. Now, which way shall we go?” She looked at the exits on either side of the moving staircase and plumped for the one on the right that led to a room of children’s clothes. They hadn’t gone far when Connie stopped to admire a beautifully embroidered dress. “Look at this. Isn’t it lovely?”

Eliza raised an eyebrow. “Do you still hold out hope of having a child?”

“Gracious, no. Not at my age.”

“You’re probably not too old.”

“I feel it. Besides, I don’t know what Sergeant Cooper would say about it.”

“You’ve not discussed it?”

“No!” Connie’s cheeks coloured. “It’s not the sort of thing you talk about.” She paused as they walked through the rails. “If it happens, it happens, but any hope I had of being a mother has long since gone.”

“You were widowed at the wrong age…”

“Not through choice…”

Eliza squeezed her friend’s arm. “Come along. The dining room’s just over there. Why don’t we check if Father’s arrived?”

She ushered Connie away from the clothes rail but stopped as a display ahead of them crashed to the floor. “What on earth…?” She had no time to think as a man darted towards her.

“Out of the way.” He skipped to one side, pushing past Connie, before he disappeared towards the exit.

“Excuse me! Where are your manners?” Eliza began to follow him, but a second later she spun on the spot. “Connie… Where are you? Oh my…” She gasped and dropped to the floor as Connie lay motionless behind a rack, her head wedged against a plinth.

“Connie. Wake up.” She slapped her friend’s cheeks before she fumbled in her handbag to retrieve her smelling salts. “Connie. Please. Wake up.” She held the bottle under Connie’s nose. “Come on, take a deep breath… Or any breath… Please…” Her heart pounded as Connie failed to respond, but finally, after what felt like minutes, she coughed and her eyes flickered open.

“Oh, praise the Lord. Are you hurt?”

“What happened?” She stared into the middle distance as Eliza knelt over her.

“We were looking at that little dress…”

Connie’s eyes crossed. “That’s the last thing I remember before I woke up here.” She put a hand to her head. “It’s all sticky!”

“Let me see.” Eliza winced at the gash on the side of Connie’s head. “You must have banged yourself on the plinth and it’s bleeding. Let me put some pressure on the wound.” Eliza held her thin cotton gloves over the cut, pressing it until Connie flinched. “I’m sorry.” She looked around. “Where is everyone? Oh! Sir…” she called to a customer hurrying past. “We need a doctor…”

“You’re not the only one. Do you know what happened?”

“Only that my companion and I were heading for the dining room and a man barged past us, knocking my friend to the floor. She has a nasty cut on her head…”

“With all due respect, I mean over there.” He pointed to a spot on the other side of the rails.

“One moment.” Eliza carefully laid Connie back on the floor before she stood up. “Oh, goodness.” She crouched down again. “Someone else has been injured. You stay here and I’ll find out if they’ve sent for a doctor. If not, I’ll make sure someone does.”

Connie closed her eyes as she nodded. “Don’t be long.”

Eliza joined the man, who had waited for her. “Did you see anything?”

“Not exactly. My wife and I were just taking a breath after stepping off the moving staircase, but we had to move out of the way as two men ran towards us.”

Eliza acknowledged the woman hovering by the door. “Two men?”

“It looked like one was chasing the other.”

“What’s the world coming to? Have they no respect?” Eliza stepped towards the man who lay on the floor not twenty feet from Connie, but an elderly salesman held out an arm to keep her away.

“Stand back, madam. This is no place for ladies.”

“What happened? Is he dead?” Eliza stared down at a pool of blood beneath a wound to his right-hand side.

“We’ve yet to determine that. Now, if you wouldn’t mind.” He tried to turn her away, but Eliza stood her ground.

“Hasn’t anyone checked for a pulse? In case you haven’t noticed, there’s a large knife in his side.”

“We’re well aware of that.”

“Then you need to stop the bleeding … and call for a doctor. Not just for him either. My friend’s been badly hurt, too.”

“Where is she?”

“On the other side of that clothes rack. She has a serious head wound…”

“Madam, calm down. We’ve sent an errand boy to fetch a doctor. He shouldn’t be long.”

“I hope you’re right, because we don’t have a lot of time.” She pointed to the man on the floor. “Someone should be helping him now. If he’s still alive.” She stepped forward, but the salesman stepped in front of her. “Don’t touch, madam. This is a crime scene.”

“It could be a murder scene if you don’t do something quickly. Will someone check his wrist for a pulse?”

The salesman stared at the body, but when he failed to move, Eliza pushed past him.

“For goodness’ sake, let me.” She reached for the man’s arm and held it at the wrist for several seconds until she dropped it to the ground. “He’s gone.”

The salesman straightened his jacket. “How on earth would you know that? We need a man to confirm it.”

“Then why didn’t you do it?” She took a deep breath. “I happen to be married to a doctor and have felt the pulses of many patients, but if you want to make sure, be my guest.”

“I’ll wait for the doctor if you don’t mind…”

“When he arrives, he needs to see to my companion before pronouncing this man dead.”

“I’m sure he’ll get to her in due course.”

“Don’t you understand? The gentleman no longer needs a doctor; my friend does.”

“The doctor will decide that. Now, if you’ll excuse me … I need to find my colleague.”

He disappeared across the shop floor as another man arrived. He nodded at the body. “Did you know him?”

“No, I didn’t.” She looked at the first man she’d met. “Did you?”

He shook his head. “He looks fairly well-to-do, in a suit like that, but I’ve not seen him here before.”

“Are you and your wife regular visitors?”

“We come about once a month, unless there’s a special occasion and my wife has an urgent need for a new outfit or accessory.”

She turned back to the second man. “Did you notice anything?”

“I can’t say I did. I’d just stepped onto the moving staircase when a man ran down the main staircase nearby.” He glanced at his pocket watch. “I’m supposed to be meeting my wife and daughter in the dining room.”

“Dining room. Goodness. I’d forgotten. I was on my way there, too…”

As she spoke, Mr Bell peered around a screen that had been put across the entrance and sauntered towards them. “Sorry I’m late. Oh!” He stared down at the man’s body. “Is this why the room’s closed off? When did this happen?”

“About five minutes ago, but it’s worse than that. Connie’s hurt.” Eliza wiped a hand across her eyes as she led him across the room. “She needs a doctor.”

“Good grief. What happened?”

“It’s difficult to say. It was all over in a flash, but I don’t like it.” She reached for Connie’s hand and was relieved when her friend returned her squeeze.

“Have they sent for a doctor?”

“They have, but I think we need the police as well. It may have been an accident that Connie was caught up in this, but I’d wager the man over there was murdered.”

“I expect he was, judging by the knife hanging from the wound.” He knelt beside Connie and took her other hand. “Has she opened her eyes?”

“She has, but we need to rouse her again. We can’t have her going to sleep.” Eliza once again pulled out her smelling salts. “I nearly didn’t bring these with me, but I was worried we may come across Lord Lowton.”

Mr Bell waited as the smell caused Connie’s head to jerk upwards. “It’s to be hoped you haven’t done so already.”

CHAPTER THREE

Eliza turned to her father, her mouth open. “You mean Connie’s fall may not have been an accident?”

“I can’t say for sure, but I wouldn’t rule it out. Not yet, anyway.”

“But what about the dead man? He was clearly the target of the attack, so wouldn’t it be too much of a coincidence for us both to be in Lord Lowton’s sights, and to be in the same part of the shop at the same time?”

“Perhaps.” Mr Bell stood up as an apparently more senior member of staff strode across the room to the dead man. “I’ll find out what’s going on.”

Eliza gazed down at Connie, whose eyes had closed again. “I’ll come with you.” I’m better off trying to find a doctor.

The newcomer stared down at the body as Eliza and Mr Bell joined him. “Do we know who he is?”

The older salesman, who now stood with a younger colleague, shook his head.

“Not yet, sir. We didn’t want to disturb the body.”

“Surely he’s dead.”

“Possibly, but with the blood … we thought we should wait for the doctor.”

Eliza stepped forward, reading the manager’s name badge as she did. “Forgive me for interrupting, Mr Birch, but I checked the body for a pulse … and there wasn’t one.”

“You did?”

“My husband’s a doctor…”

The man turned around. “Is he here?”

“No, but I’ve worked with him for several years and I know how to check a pulse.”

“You work with him?” The manager’s eyes widened until he shook his head. “Never mind, let me try.” He bent down and reached for the man’s nearest wrist. “Nothing.” He looked back at Eliza. “Did you check his pockets?”

“Oh, no, I wouldn’t presume…”

“I’m glad to hear it.” Mr Birch felt for the inside pocket of the jacket and pulled out a Hermes wallet, which he flipped open. “Five pounds. Very nice.”

Eliza waited while he reunited the wallet with the money. “His pocket square has been disturbed.”

“Is it surprising when he’s been murdered?”

“Not if there was a struggle, but given the wound is on the right-hand side, it seems unusual. Would you mind checking it?”

“Very well.” Mr Birch sighed as he put his fingers into the top pocket of the victim’s jacket. “What’s this? Some calling cards.” He flicked through them. “That’s strange. Four cards, but they have different names.” He offered them to the senior salesman. “Do you recognise any of them, Mr Henson?”

“I can’t say I do.” He passed them to his younger colleague. “Mr Paul?”

“No. They all sound important, though. Accounts may have a record of them.”

“That’s a good point.” Mr Henson took back the cards. “I’ll take them over when we’re finished here.”

Eliza was itching to see the names and extended a hand to him. “May I?”

“Well … I don’t know…” Mr Henson looked at the manager, but Eliza took them from him as he hesitated. She read them out to the rest of the group.

“Mr Benedict Hemsworth, a barrister; Sir Reginald Fitzroy, gentleman; Mr Percival Waverley, a bank manager and Mr Rupert Bellingham, an accountant. Do any of those names mean anything to anyone?”

As everyone shook their heads, Eliza handed the cards to the manager. “I’m sure the police will want to see them. Has anyone sent for them?”

“Not yet. I wanted to know what had happened first. Do we have any witnesses?”

Eliza nodded. “The man we believe to be the killer knocked my companion to the ground when he was escaping, and she’s badly injured. She needs urgent attention when the doctor arrives.”

The man turned on the spot. “Where is she?”

“On the floor on the other side of the clothes rack.” Eliza escorted him across the room, where he glanced down at Connie before he returned to the man. “Did anyone else see anything?”

The men Eliza had spoken to raised their hands. The first introduced himself as Mr Radcliffe.

“We got out of the way of the man who presumably wielded the knife. He was heading for the stairs and was being followed by a second, taller man. I assumed he was a member of staff who was chasing after him.”

The manager looked at Mr Henson. “Have we had any staff leave the scene?”

“Not that I’m aware. He may have been a customer.”

Mr Radcliffe shrugged. “I couldn’t say for sure other than he was wearing a dark suit and his hair was rather dishevelled.”

Eliza glanced around the men, who all wore dark suits. “Did he have a hat with him?”

“If he did, it wasn’t on his head.”

“So, you saw his hair colour?”

“If I remember rightly, he had greying hair that was still dark on the crown.”

“The fact he wasn’t wearing a hat suggests it was a salesman rather than a customer.”

“Unless the hat was knocked off during the scuffle.”

“It’s possible.” She studied the floor. “Has anyone found it?”

“Not yet, but we will.”

“And what about the victim’s hat? Has anyone seen that?”

“We’ll look for that, too.” Mr Henson turned back to Mr Radcliffe. “You said there were two men. Could you describe the first?”

“There’s not much to say about him … although he was wearing a hat. A homburg, if I’m not mistaken. Other than that, he was also wearing a dark suit. I’d say he was of average height.”

“So, possibly a customer.” Eliza looked over at the second man she’d met. “Could the man you saw on the stairs be one of the men described?”

“He wasn’t wearing a hat, so it may be the second man.”

“Can you confirm his hair colour?”

“I must have seen it, but I’m damned if I can remember what it was.” He held up a hand. “Excuse my language. At a guess, I would say he had dark or grey hair. It would have stood out if it was any different.”

“And was he the only man you noticed?”

“The only one on his own. There were several men a little ahead of us with their wives.”

The manager nodded. “And your name, sir…?”

“Mr Ashcroft.”

“Thank you. You’ll need to speak to the police when they arrive. What about you, madam? Do you have anything to add?”

“Not really. I must have seen the men, but they flew past me in a blur. The one who bumped into my companion was as Mr Radcliffe described. He wore a dark suit and hat, but once my friend fell, I stopped paying attention.”

“Very well. Did anyone witness the actual altercation?”

Mr Henson replied. “I don’t believe so, sir. I was showing a couple of ladies into the dining room and Mr Paul had gone to the stockroom.”

The second salesman appeared relieved as he nodded. “That’s right. I wanted to check the stock of toys while we were quiet.”

“Right, good.” Mr Birch glanced around them. “I’ll wait for the doctor to arrive and then I’ll send for the police.”

Eliza stared at him. “Don’t you think you should send for the police now? The sooner they arrive, the greater the chance of catching the killers. They may even still be in the shop.”

“If it’s all the same to you, madam, I’ll decide. The first thing we need to do is seal off the doors more completely. Anyone could walk in.”

“What about the people in the dining room? They’ll be wandering about once they’ve finished luncheon.”

The manager considered Eliza for a moment before turning to Mr Henson. “She has a point. Will you speak to the waiters and tell them to send them out through the back door until we can move the bodies?”

“Bodies! There’s only one. My companion is still very much alive. Or at least she was. Where did the errand boy go for this doctor? South of the river? I need to get back to her.” Eliza bustled across the room and crouched down by her friend. She’s losing too much blood. Where’s Archie when I need him? “Come on, Connie. Wake up. The doctor will be here soon.” She rummaged in her bag for the smelling salts as Mr Bell stared down at her.

“I don’t think we can wait. Let me call a carriage and we’ll take her to the hospital ourselves.”

“We need to do something about the bleeding. I could do with a bandage, or something similar. Strips of cloth would do.”

“Give me a minute…” Mr Bell disappeared without another word, leaving Eliza to hold the smelling salts under Connie’s nose. Her voice was weak when she regained consciousness.

“Will I be all right?”

“You’ll be fine. Father’s gone for a bandage and then we’re taking you to hospital.”

“Where’s Frank…?”

“He’ll visit you later. We need to get you to the hospital first.”

“Don’t let him be angry with me.”

“Of course he won’t be angry. I’ve never known him as much as raise his voice to you.”

“But he told me to be careful…” Her voice trailed off as her eyes closed.

Where on earth is that confounded doctor? Eliza scurried back to Mr Henson, who was still beside the man’s body. “I need a doctor. This is getting urgent.”

“All in good time, madam. He must be busy.”

“My companion can’t wait. Please. Isn’t there anything you can do?”

“I’m afraid not. Now, if you’ll excuse me…” He left Eliza alone as he dashed towards the screen covering the door.

“No one’s allowed in here.”

“It’s Mr Bell. I’m with one of the victims. I have a bandage.”

Eliza pushed past Mr Henson and pulled back the screen. “It’s my father! Come in, quickly. Did you call a carriage?”

“I asked a member of staff to get one for us and to find a wheelchair if they have one. It’s typical we’re almost at the top of the building.”

Eliza took the strip of material he’d presumably obtained from the fabrics department and knelt down again. “Would you go and wait for them while I fasten this?” She lifted Connie’s shoulders onto her knee. “Poor thing. She’s lost so much blood…”

“Then work quickly. I’ll get the wheelchair here as soon as I can.”

CHAPTER FOUR

The bandage around Connie’s head obscured most of her usually blond hair, but tinges of blood were still visible around the edges as Eliza made her comfortable on the floor.

“It’s not the nicest headwear I’ve seen you in, but it’s probably the most functional. Just lie there until Father gets back. He won’t be long.”

“You won’t leave me, will you?”

Eliza glanced over to the salesman, now positioned by the door. “Of course not. I’m here. Just let me stretch my legs.” She pushed herself up and edged towards Mr Henson. “Excuse me. Could you spare a moment?”

“I’m waiting for the doctor.”

“Yes … and I’m grateful, but would you mind if I take the details of the men whose names were on the calling cards?”

He stared at her. “Why on earth do you want to do that?”

“Please. I’ve already told you, my friend’s badly hurt and I don’t have a lot of time.”

He eyed her curiously before he handed them over. “I want them back.”

“And you’ll have them … in a moment.” She knelt down again beside Connie but glanced back up at him. “Would you be able to ask the other gentlemen for their details, too? One of them was Mr Radcliffe, but I don’t remember the name of the other. If they have calling cards, that would be most helpful.”

Mr Radcliffe had clearly overheard as he paced the floor. “Is there a reason you’d like my card?”

She glanced down at Connie. “I want to find out who did this to my friend, so I may need to contact you again.”

The man shrugged and handed her his card. “I’m not sure I can be any more help. I’ve already told you all I know.”

“Sometimes people remember things later. This has all been quite a shock…”

He watched her as she wrote the last of the names in her book. “You sound as if you’ve done this before.”

“Once or twice. Please. Will you get the other man’s card for me?” She stood up and handed Mr Henson the four cards. “Thank you. I need to go as soon as my father returns, so may I give you my card to pass to the police … if they ever turn up?” She wrote Mr Bell’s address on the back. “I’m staying with my father for the next couple of days, so the police can find me there…”

The salesman studied it. “Yes, Mrs Thomson.”

They both turned as the screen moved behind them and Mr Bell pushed a wheelchair through the gap.

“Here we are. There’s a lift on the other side of the shop we can use. It will be easier than taking the moving stairs.”

“It certainly will.” Eliza looked down at Connie, whose eyes were again closed. “The next problem is, how do we get her into this chair?”

Mr Bell tutted. “There’s nothing of her. You steady the chair and I’ll lift her up.”

An hour later, Eliza and Mr Bell sat on upright wooden chairs in the corridor of St Thomas’s Hospital, opposite the ward where a nurse had taken Connie. Eliza’s eyes rarely moved from the clock above the door to her right.

“It’s as if time’s stopped. What’s keeping them?”

Mr Bell patted her hand. “She’s not been here for more than half an hour. These things take time.”

“It shouldn’t take them that long to patch up her head.”

“They’ll need to give her a check-up as well. You should know that. She clearly wasn’t lucid.”

“You’re right.” She sighed as she put her head in her hands. “What a mess. All we were doing was walking to the dining room.”

“You can’t blame yourself. You were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“I hope so. Please don’t repeat to Connie what you said about Lord Lowton. She was nervous enough about coming to London in the first place.”

“I won’t, but I’ll make some enquiries with Inspector Adams. I presume he’ll be on the case.”

“He will if there’s any suspicion of the killer being linked to Lord Lowton. Why not write and ask him to come to the house? I’ll find it difficult to travel into town once Connie’s home.”

“I don’t think so. It’s a big chunk out of his day. Won’t we need to come back to London to collect your shopping? I’ve not seen any bags.”

Eliza groaned. “You’re right, I left it all with the concierge…”

“Then we’ll kill two birds with one stone…” Mr Bell paused as a nurse came from the ward and approached them.

“Mr Bell?”

“Indeed.” He stood up and doffed his hat. “This is my daughter, Mrs Thomson.”

“Madam.” The nurse acknowledged her but turned back to Mr Bell. “Mrs Appleton’s comfortable now, if you’d like to see her…”

“See her?” Eliza’s brow creased. “We’re here to take her home.”

The nurse held open the door to the ward. “The doctor says she needs to stay in for a few days for observation.”

“B-but … you can’t keep her here.”

“I’m afraid she needs complete bedrest until she’s over the concussion.”

“How long might that take?”

“It’s difficult to say. It was a nasty bang, so it could be several days. The doctor has asked that you only stay for five minutes and don’t ask any questions. She shouldn’t think about anything until the headache and blurred vision subside.”

“Gracious.” Eliza bit her lip as they entered the ward, her stomach churning as they approached a bed halfway down the right-hand side of the room.

“Five minutes…”

Eliza stared down at Connie as the nurse left them. “Look at her.” For the first time in years, a tear ran down her cheek. “She looks so sweet. They’ve even tried to brush the blood from her hair.”

Mr Bell pulled up a chair and offered it to her. “Don’t upset yourself. She’s in the best place.”

Eliza nodded and reached for Connie’s hand as she sat down. “Are you awake?”

Connie appeared lifeless for several seconds before she turned her head. “Just.”

Eliza wiped her eyes. “I’m so sorry this happened. I should have seen the man coming.”

“It’s not your fault. I wasn’t as quick as you in getting out of the way.”

“It happened too quickly.” When Connie failed to respond, Eliza continued. “I’m going to find the man who did this to you.”

“I know you will…” She closed her eyes again. “Frank will help…”

They stayed by the bed for several more minutes, but when Connie remained silent, Mr Bell stood up.

“Come on, let me get you home. Connie needs to rest, and so do you. We’ll visit again tomorrow.”

The change of landscape from city to countryside passed in a blur as Eliza stared out of the window.

“I feel numb.”

Mr Bell studied her from the seat opposite. “It’s only natural. As soon as we get home, I’ll pour you a large brandy. It might bring a bit of colour to your cheeks.”

“Why would anyone want to hurt Connie? She wouldn’t harm a fly.” She shook her head. “It should have been me. I’d be able to deal with it better.” Her head suddenly turned to her father. “Do you think they were after me, but hurt Connie instead?”

He shrugged. “We can’t discount it, but I certainly hope not. I’d like to think it was nothing more than an unhappy coincidence.”

“But you said Lord Lowton could be involved.”

“I’ve reconsidered and changed my mind. You were right when you said it would be too unlikely for you and the dead man to have both been enemies of His Lordship, not to mention being in the shop at the same time.”

“So, you don’t think it was deliberate.”

“Not any more.”

Eliza resumed her study of the trees lining the road. “I wonder who the dead man was. Do you think he was one of the men on the calling cards?”

“It’s possible. Unless he’d given all his cards out and they were ones he’d collected.”

“We’ll have to hope the police can find out.”

“Did they have addresses on them?”

“Only business addresses…”

“It’s a start. It should be easy enough to check whether they’re all still alive.”

“I suppose so. They were all rather important men. If one of them is the dead man, what was he doing in a shop on a Tuesday morning without a wife?”

“Maybe he was settling her account. Or meeting someone for luncheon … something we missed, by the way. It’s no surprise you look as weary as you do.”

“I couldn’t eat a thing at the moment.”

“That’s beside the point. Afternoon tea will do you the world of good. I’ll ask Mrs Wood to see to it once we get home.”

Eliza ignored him. “We need to visit every day. I can’t get the image of Connie lying in that bed out of my head. I want her smiling again and excited about her wedding.”

“And she will be. Let’s see how she is tomorrow … and hopefully, I’ll see you smile again, too.”

CHAPTER FIVE

Mr Bell was already at the breakfast table the following morning when Eliza came downstairs. He smiled up at her. “Good morning. Did you sleep well?”

“Not really. The images of that man rushing past me and then Connie lying in hospital were never far from my thoughts.”

“No, well, it’s to be expected. At least you’ve a little more colour in your cheeks…”

She feigned a smile. “I gave them a good pinch before I came downstairs.”

“Ah.”

“What time are we leaving?”

Mr Bell raised an eyebrow. “Leaving?”

“To go to the hospital. We need to visit Connie.”

“There’s no rush. They won’t let us onto the ward until this afternoon.”

“I was hoping they’d make an exception.”

“We should hope they don’t. They usually only do that if a patient’s at death’s door.”

“You’re right.” Eliza sighed as he pushed the teapot towards her.

“Come on, cheer up. Eat some breakfast and then we can go. Perhaps we can go for that luncheon we missed yesterday.”

“I’m not sure if I want to go back, if I’m honest.”

“We could talk to the salesmen and find out what happened when the police arrived.”

“Assuming they did.”

“I’m sure they would have done. There was a man murdered, don’t forget…”

“I’m not likely to…” She reached for a slice of toast but dropped it back into the stand when there was a knock on the front door. “Who on earth’s that at this hour of the day? I hope it’s not about Connie…” She jumped to her feet, but before she reached the door, Mrs Wood opened it and showed in a police officer.

“Sergeant Hopkins for you, sir.”

Eliza gasped. “Is Connie all right?”

“Connie?”

“I’m sorry, my companion, Mrs Connie Appleton. She spent the night in St Thomas’s Hospital.”

“I couldn’t say, ma’am. I’m here to speak to a Mrs Thomson about the events of yesterday.”

“Oh. That’s me.” She put a hand to her chest. “Please, take a seat. May I get you a cup of tea?”

“I wouldn’t say no. I had an early start this morning.”

“You must have done if you’ve come from New Scotland Yard.”

“Indeed.”

Eliza was about to ring the bell to attract Mrs Wood’s attention, but the housekeeper arrived, unbidden, with a spare cup and saucer.

“I thought you might need this.”

“Thank you. You must be a mind reader.”

Mrs Wood set down the crockery and picked up the milk jug. “Milk and sugar for you, Sergeant?”

“Both please. Two sugars.”

Eliza watched as Mrs Wood poured the tea, then waited until she left.

“How may I help, Sergeant?”

“I’ve been told you were in Harrods yesterday when a man was murdered. Could you tell me what happened?”

“Not directly, I’m afraid. I was with Mrs Appleton, on our way to the dining room, when we heard a commotion. Seconds later, a man rushed towards us and knocked Mrs Appleton to the ground. She got a terrible gash to her head, and a severe concussion. That’s why she’s in hospital … and why I was worried you’d arrived with bad news.”

“Ah, I see. I wasn’t told about her, but did you get a look at the man who bumped into her?”

“Only fleetingly. I didn’t notice any distinguishing features, and like most men in the store, he wore a smart dark suit and hat.”

“Did he have a moustache or beard?”

“No. He was clean-shaven.”

The sergeant wrote in his notebook. “And how old would you say he was?”

“That’s difficult to say, but neither young nor old. Somewhere in the middle.”

The sergeant nodded. “We had reports that a second man was involved. Did you see him?”

Eliza shook her head. “Not with any clarity. I was too distracted by that stage. There was a Mr Radcliffe and Mr Ashcroft, I think his name was, who said there was someone else, but my friend was injured by then…”

“I see. Right, well, if that’s all you have for me, I’ll drink this tea and leave you to your breakfast.”

“There’s no hurry.” She pushed the toast rack towards him. “Help yourself. I presume you’ve not eaten.”

“Not a lot, so I will. Thank you.”

Eliza watched as he put butter and marmalade onto a triangle of toast. “Do you know the name of the victim yet?”

“Not yet. The inspector said he’d look into it today.”

Eliza’s eyes flicked to her father. “Would that be Inspector Adams?”

“Yes, have you come across him before?”

“We’ve worked together on several cases…”

The sergeant’s mouth fell open and the toast he’d planned to take a bite out of remained suspended in mid-air. “You’ve worked with him?”

Eliza sighed. “I’m afraid this isn’t the first murder my father and I have been witness to…”

“But you said you worked together.”

“Well, yes. My husband’s a doctor and so he’s often involved if a body’s found. I like to help if I can.”

“What my daughter’s trying to say, Sergeant, is that if she knows a murder has taken place, she’s always keen on being an amateur sleuth.”

“And I’ve been successful at it.”

“You have.”

The sergeant’s toast was still uneaten. “And Inspector Adams lets you interfere?”

“I’d hardly call it interfering, but yes, he does. He didn’t like the idea to start with, but after the first case, he realised I knew what I was doing…”

“I’ve not seen you at the Yard.”

“Oh, no. I don’t get involved at that level. I live in the village of Moreton-on-Thames, so it’s usually murders that happen around the area. Mrs Appleton, my companion, if you remember, she’s about to be married to the sergeant there and he always appreciates our help.”

“So, you’re married to a doctor, and your companion’s betrothed to the sergeant?”

“Exactly. I usually like the case well under way before the inspector arrives, but I’m afraid I’ve been rather distracted since yesterday … with Mrs Appleton being in hospital…”

“I’m sure you have.”

Eliza took a sip of tea. “Tell me, will Inspector Adams be at Scotland Yard this afternoon?”

“I couldn’t say. I expect he’ll be out for as long as it takes to find out the name and next of kin of the deceased.”

“Never mind. We’ll be at the hospital later, so maybe we’ll pop in on the off chance.”

“He is rather busy…”

Mr Bell interrupted. “Henry’s joining us for dinner tonight, don’t forget.”

Eliza looked at her father. “Gracious, what a terrible mother I am. I’d forgotten.” She smiled at the sergeant. “Henry’s my son. He’s betrothed to Lady Alice Lowton, and I’m keen to hear the plans for the wedding.”

The sergeant’s eyes widened. “L-Lowton.”

“I’m afraid so. She’s a lovely girl, though. Takes after her mother. I don’t suppose Inspector Adams has had any contact with His Lordship recently?”

“Not that I’m aware.” The sergeant checked his pocket watch. “Goodness, is that the time? I really need to get a move on. Thank you for breakfast.” He finished his cup of tea and stood up. “It was nice to meet you both.”

CHAPTER SIX

Eliza stepped down from the carriage and looked up at the six-storey stone and red-brick building that stood on the bank of the River Thames.

“Very impressive for a place of work.”

“I’ll say.” Mr Bell joined her on the footpath. “I didn’t realise there were enough police officers to fill such a large building.”

“Maybe they’re expecting to grow into it. Let’s just hope they let us in … and that Inspector Adams is available.”

Mr Bell led the way to an arched doorway and pushed on the heavy oak door. “There’d be no getting through this if it was locked.”

“I imagine that’s the plan.”

A young man in his navy police uniform looked up from a wooden desk on their right. “Sir. Madam. May I help?”

“I hope so.” Mr Bell spoke as the constable’s eyes lingered on Eliza. “My name’s Bell and this is my daughter, Mrs Thomson. We’re wondering if Inspector Adams might be here. We’d like a word with him.”

“Is he expecting you?”

“Not directly, but he won’t be surprised we’re here. It relates to his latest murder investigation.”

The constable raised an eyebrow. “You have some information?”

“Yes.”

“Let me get his sergeant, then…” He turned to leave, but Eliza called him back.

“Actually, if you don’t mind, we’d like to speak to Inspector Adams directly. He’s an old acquaintance.”

“He’s not here. He went out shortly after nine o’clock and I’ve not seen him since.”

“Ah.” Eliza’s shoulders drooped. “Have you any idea when he might be back?”

“He doesn’t give me his itinerary.”

“No. Oh, well. It was worth a try. Would you tell him we called and that he’s welcome to come to Richmond for a cup of tea…?”

“If you have information that may be relevant to a murder investigation, I can’t just let you walk away. You’ll need to give a statement.”

“Actually, I gave the sergeant my statement this morning.”

“But you said you had information about the case.”

“In a roundabout way. It’s more that we’d like to ask Inspector Adams a few questions.”

The constable’s forehead creased. “You want to ask him questions? He won’t agree to that.”

“No, well, I don’t suppose he would for most people…” Eliza hadn’t finished talking when the front door burst open and Inspector Adams strode across the reception towards a door on his left.

“Inspector!”

He stopped as Eliza stepped towards him. “Mrs Thomson. What are you doing here? Aren’t you with Mrs Appleton?”

“We’re a little early for visiting and so we wondered if we might have a word…”

Inspector Adams looked at Mr Bell, and then the constable, before he nodded. “Very well. I can give you five minutes…”

Eliza followed him into a more modest corridor and up a flight of stairs to a large, chaotic office overlooking the river. “What a lovely view.”

“If I ever get chance to look out of the window.”

Mr Bell closed the door as he joined them. “You’re still busy, then?”

“I fear this city is getting worse. People should be safe walking the streets … or going to the shops.”

“Quite.” Mr Bell held out a chair for Eliza before he sat down. “Are you any closer to finding out what happened yesterday?”

“I’m afraid not. We don’t even know the name of the victim. I spoke to one of the men on the calling cards this morning, a Mr Waverley, and he was still alive and well. He’s acquainted with the men mentioned on the other cards but hadn’t seen any of them for over a week. I’ll need to call on the rest of them this afternoon.”

“Wouldn’t it have been easier to stay in Mayfair and speak to them at the same time?”

“You’d think so, but the chief wants to see me at one o’clock, so I’ve had to split up my day.”

Eliza cocked her head to one side. “Does the chief constable usually get involved in routine murder enquiries?”

“No, but as you’ve probably guessed, we need to find out if this has anything to do with Lord Lowton.”

“And does it?”

“It’s hard to say for sure, but if the dead man was one of those we have names for, I doubt it. As far as I can work out, none of them had any connection to him.”

“If I remember rightly, one was a barrister. Might he have had some connection to Lord Lowton’s trial?”

Inspector Adams shrugged. “He wasn’t the prosecuting barrister, if that’s what you mean. Whether he was from the same chambers, though, it’s too early to say.”

“I’ll try to find out for you if you like. You look as if you have a lot on your plate.”

“No!” Inspector Adams held her gaze. “It’s too dangerous. If this is connected to His Lordship, anyone involved in his arrest may be in the firing line. And that includes you. You need to leave this to the police.”

“I’ll be discreet…”

“Absolutely not.” He turned to Mr Bell. “You understand, sir? This is no place for amateur detectives.”

Mr Bell nodded. “You’ll have no problems from us, Inspector. Will he, Eliza?”

Eliza sighed. “No … but you will tell us if anything changes? I want to see the man who hurt Mrs Appleton behind bars.”

“And you will. Assuming he’s the same man who murdered our victim. But you must leave it to us. There’s too much at stake.”

The entrance to the hospital was busy when they arrived, and Eliza linked her father’s arm as they walked up the stairs to the second floor.

“I hope she’s feeling better. I won’t settle until she’s on the mend.”

“Neither will I.” He held open the door at the end of the ward and ushered her inside. “That looks promising. She’s propped up on her pillows.”

“Thank goodness.” Eliza found her smile as she approached the bed, and Connie turned her head towards them. “Good afternoon. You’re looking a little better than you did yesterday.”

Connie’s smile didn’t reach her eyes. “I’ve still got a terrible headache.”

“Oh dear.” Eliza took her hand. “What’s the doctor said?”

“Only that it will pass in a few days.” Her eyes filled with tears as she squeezed Eliza’s hand. “I don’t know that I can stay here for that long. I want to go home.”

“And we’ll take you as soon as we can. Has the doctor said anything about when you can leave?”

“It won’t be until the blurred vision passes. I’ve been lying back with my eyes closed all morning hoping it will mend itself, but every time I open them, it’s there.”

“I’m sure it won’t be long. You don’t seem as sleepy as you were yesterday.”

“The doctor said I slept for over eighteen hours, which may be why.”

“It would certainly help. If you try to stay calm, it will pass quicker.”

“I’d feel calmer if Frank was here. I thought he might have come with you this afternoon.”

Eliza glanced across the bed to her father. “Erm, no. We didn’t want to write to him until we knew how you were. There’s no point worrying him unnecessarily…”

“He doesn’t know?” Connie’s eyes widened but closed again quickly as a pained expression spread across her face.

“Don’t get agitated. It will only make you worse.”

“But I want to see him.” Tears rolled down her cheeks as Eliza reached for a handkerchief.

“Take this. You’ll be right as rain soon enough and this will all be a memory.”

Connie wiped her face. “I hope so. Have you found the killer yet?”

“Inspector Adams is working on it.”

“Aren’t you helping?”

Eliza took her hands. “You need to rest your mind as well as your body. Besides, Matron told us we could only stay for ten minutes so we don’t disturb you. As soon as you’re on the mend, we’ll talk about it.”

CHAPTER SEVEN

Eliza took a seat at the dining table to the left of her father, while Henry sat opposite, his eyes wide as Eliza put a napkin on her lap.

“You can’t keep me waiting until after dinner to tell me what happened to Mrs Appleton. Why’s she in hospital?”

Eliza waited as Mrs Wood delivered a tureen of soup to the table and served out three bowls. Once the door closed behind her, she picked up her spoon. “We were on the fourth floor of Harrods when a man rushed towards us and knocked her over. She banged her head and has a nasty concussion.”

“What was a man doing rushing about in a place like that?”

“We believe he’d just murdered someone and was leaving the scene of the crime.”

“Murder!” Henry nearly choked on his soup. “What is it with you?”

“It’s not my fault!” Eliza’s voice was a pitch higher than usual. “We were going to the dining room to meet Grandfather, and I’ve no idea who either man was.”

“It just happens so often…” He shook his head. “Have the police identified the victim yet?”

“They hadn’t earlier this afternoon. We called at New Scotland Yard to see Inspector Adams, but he was still working through the names on some calling cards in the victim’s pocket.”

“Surely that should tell you who he was.”

“There were four cards, and each had a different name.” Eliza took the list from her handbag and handed it to him. “The inspector spoke to Mr Waverley this morning, so we know it isn’t him. All the addresses are around the Mayfair area. Do you recognise any of the names?”

Henry’s forehead creased. “There’s one here that looks familiar, the accountant Rupert Bellingham. I couldn’t tell you why, though. He may have been a patient at some point.”

“Or might you have heard him mentioned in connection with Lord Lowton?”

“I doubt it. I keep out of his way whenever possible.”

“What about the other names?”

Henry sighed as he studied the list. “I don’t recognise any of them. Why are there six names? You said there were only four cards.”

“Oh, the last two are men who were in the shop and saw what happened. I thought it was as well to get their details. You can’t be too thorough.”

Henry nodded. “The top four all look well-to-do, judging by their occupations. A barrister, accountant, bank manager and Sir Reginald Fitzroy. I presume he doesn’t need to work for a living.”

“I doubt it. I’m guessing he lives at the address given, but the others all appear to be business addresses.”

“You’re probably right. There are plenty of offices in that part of town. Why don’t you take a walk around the area next time you visit the hospital?”

“Absolutely not!” Mr Bell banged the table as his usually pleasant demeanour became stern. “Any of those men could be the killer. You can’t expect your mother to turn up on their front doorsteps … especially when she might recognise one of them.”

“You’re right, I’m sorry.” Henry turned his attention to his soup. “Will Inspector Adams pay them all a visit?”

Eliza nodded. “He said he would, but I wish he’d hurry up. I want to find out who they are before Connie comes out of hospital. She’ll be terrified if he’s still walking the streets.”

“She can’t think it was anything other than an accident?”

“Given we’ve been involved with two murders in the last few months, it will be uppermost in her mind. She worries about things like that, and logic doesn’t always come into it.”

“Then I suggest you get her back to Moreton as soon as possible. I doubt she’ll need to stay in hospital for as long as it takes Inspector Adams to catch his murderer. I would hope not anyway. What did Sergeant Cooper have to say about it all? I’d have expected him to come straight here.”

Eliza grimaced. “I’ve not told him yet because I was hoping for some positive news first. I don’t want him worrying.”

“He’ll worry whatever you say, once he knows his fiancée is in hospital.”

“You’re right…”

Henry studied her. “Are you sure that’s why you don’t want to tell him, or is there another reason?”

Eliza let her spoon drop into her half-finished bowl of soup. “Once I tell him, it will be the end of Connie coming to London with me … or anywhere else, for that matter. He wasn’t keen for her to leave Moreton in the first place, and I promised I’d look after her…”

“Ah. I suppose that’s what happens when women get married. Or at least most of them.” He smirked at his mother as Mr Bell chuckled.

“Your father was well aware of what he was letting himself in for before he and your mother married. I feared for years that she’d be a spinster.”

Eliza raised an eyebrow at him. “Then why were you so hostile to Archie? You hardly welcomed him with open arms.”

Mr Bell held up his hands. “And I admit I was wrong. I suppose I was still hoping you’d marry someone with money who’d encourage you to live a more sedate lifestyle.”

Henry finished his soup. “It’s as well she didn’t, or I wouldn’t be sitting here now. Father finds her useful as well.”

“I am still here, you know.” She rolled her eyes. “I hate to say it, but I imagine Lord Lowton has the same opinion of you that Grandfather had of your father.”

“I wish he did. As it is, I doubt he’ll ever accept me into the family.”

“I doubt he’s that bad. He’d have forbidden the marriage otherwise.”

“I suppose so, although that’s more down to Lady Caroline than anyone else.”

“Be grateful you have an ally. How are the arrangements coming along? I’ve not heard much about them.”

“We went to see the vicar of the local church last week and confirmed the date. Easter Saturday next year.”

Eliza’s brow creased. “April? I thought you wanted to make it earlier than that.”

“We did, but the vicar won’t allow flowers in church over Lent, and Lady Caroline insists that we can’t do without them. Easter Saturday was a compromise once the vicar realised that the flowers for the wedding would last over the Easter celebrations as well.”

Eliza grinned. “He’s not wrong. Will you have a marquee like they did for her debutante ball?”

“That’s the plan, if we can get one big enough. I don’t know what we’ll do if we can’t.”

“I’m sure they’ll be able to arrange something. Mr Taylor won’t turn down such a big job as that … assuming that’s who they ask.”

Henry shrugged. “I’ve no idea. I’m leaving it to them.”

“It’s typical that you’ve only got half the story.” Eliza sat back in her chair as Mrs Wood arrived to collect their bowls. “Would you invite Lady Alice for dinner on Saturday? I didn’t meet her properly when we were at Lowton Hall, and it would be nice to talk to her … and at least she’ll be able to answer my questions. If that’s all right with you, Father. And Mrs Wood…”

Mrs Wood stopped by the door. “It’s no skin off my nose. I’ll just need some warning.”

Mr Bell nodded. “I’d like that, too. It’s time we started to rebuild the bridges.”

“Very well. I’ll write to her once I get home.”

CHAPTER EIGHT

Eliza let out a deep sigh as she stood at the window, staring at the back garden of her father’s house.

Mr Bell looked up from his newspaper. “What’s the matter?”

Eliza raised her arms and dropped them by her side. “It’s so strange without Connie. I suppose I’ll have to get used to it once she’s married.”

“It won’t be as bad as all that. You’ll still see her while Sergeant Cooper’s at work.”

“I know, but it’s just struck me how things are going to change.”

Mr Bell checked the time. “We’ve another three quarters of an hour before morning coffee. Would you like to go for a walk around the park?”

Eliza turned around to face him. “Why not? The weather’s still pleasant enough. Let me fix my hat and tell Mrs Wood not to make coffee until we’re back.”

“We shouldn’t be long.”

“Even so, nobody wants stewed coffee.” She screwed up her face as they walked to the hallway. “I don’t remember the last time the two of us took a walk together on our own.”

Mr Bell helped her on with her coat. “Perhaps Mrs Appleton being in hospital has some benefits, then. Not that I wish her any harm…” he added as Eliza shot him a glance.

“I should hope not. Now, give me a minute and I’ll follow you outside.”

Mr Bell was surveying the trees surrounding the expanse of grass that was Richmond Park as she joined him. “You won’t be able to see through them for much longer, the way they’re growing.”

“Trees are nice, though, and at least you don’t have far to walk to get to the paths.” She accepted his arm as they set off. “It’s funny to think that the park is probably bigger than the whole of Moreton. It would certainly take longer to walk around.” She smiled as they headed towards the lake, their feet crunching on the gravel footpath. “You’re very fortunate to live so close to such a lovely place.”

“It’s why I moved here. It’s quiet this morning, though.”

“Isn’t it always?”

He laughed. “To be honest, I couldn’t tell you. I rarely take a walk at this time.”

“Perhaps you should.”

“And miss meeting the neighbours in the afternoon? I’d rather not.”

“I’d forgotten that. You needn’t come to London with me later, if you’d prefer to stay here.”

“Nonsense. I wouldn’t dream of letting you travel on your own. You don’t even have Mrs Appleton…”

“No.” Eliza sighed. “It’s just so frustrating not being able to help with the investigation. Are you sure we can’t take a walk around Mayfair? We needn’t knock…”

“And what if the killer’s on his way to or from the building?”

“The chances are slim…”

“That doesn’t matter. I don’t want you ending up like Mrs Appleton … or worse.”

“May we go to the library, then?”

Mr Bell stared at her. “What on earth for?”

“To check the directories and find out if the addresses are businesses or not … and to make me feel as if I’m doing something.”

“Does it matter if they’re offices or homes?”

“Not really, but you never know. We may learn something.”

Mr Bell squeezed her hand. “If it makes you feel better, we can have an early luncheon and go straight to the museum library before we get to the hospital.”

“Isn’t that a bit out of the way?”

“It’s only about twenty minutes further than the hospital, and we’re more likely to find what we’re looking for there than anywhere else. It is rather splendid, too.”

Eliza’s smile returned. “You’re right. I’ve not been to the round reading room since I was at Bedford College, so it will be nice to visit the place again.” She turned to leave. “We’d better get back to the house and have our coffee, then. I don’t want to be rushing when we visit Connie.”

Eliza stepped into the circular room that was primarily lit by windows high above them and roof lights in the dome overhead. Tables with individual reading lamps sat in the middle of a circle surrounded by three storeys of books.

“I didn’t think it was possible, but I’d say there’re more books here now than when I was a regular visitor.”

“People keep donating their collections, so I imagine there are.”

“There’s so much to take in, I can’t fathom where the directories might be. We’d better ask.”

Once a clerk had shown them to a table in the correct section, Eliza stood with her hands on her hips. “Where to start?”

“Why not here?” Mr Bell reached for a directory covering Middlesex.

“Yes, that should do it. Now, let me see.” She flicked to the alphabetical list of names. “Let’s start with Mr Hemsworth, the barrister. Hmm… Oh.” She checked her sheet of paper. “The address on his card is his residential address. I wonder where he practises.” She turned to the business section, scanning several pages before she found what she was looking for. “There we are. Lincoln’s Inn Field. He’ll be familiar with most of the barristers in London if he’s based there.”

“Lord Lowton’s chap, you mean?”

“It’s worth considering.” She copied down the address and turned her attention to Mr Waverley. “I presume Inspector Adams called at the bank this morning. Ah, yes, the address for Barclays matches the card. Let me see where he lives.” It didn’t take long for her to find his details. “Here we are. Park Street. Not too far from the bank.”

“Or from Grosvenor Square. Sir Fitzroy’s address.” Mr Bell pointed to the paper on the desk.

“Of course. I wonder if Mr Bellingham is close by, too. The card suggests he works in Mayfair.” She ran a finger down the names beginning with ‘B.’ “Here we are. Oh. Soho.” She stared at her father. “That’s a bit of a comedown.”

“It certainly is. Maybe it’s the accountant in him and he likes to live frugally.”

“If I was married to him, I wouldn’t be best pleased. Especially if he does a lot of socialising with the other three men. Imagine inviting Sir Fitzroy to a dinner party in Soho.”

“If that’s what they do. They may keep their relationships professional … or only visit coffee houses.”

“That makes sense. He does work in Mayfair.”

“He may just be starting out.”

“Perhaps, although we have no idea how old any of them are.” Eliza cocked her head to one side. “We could do with knowing what’s in Mr Hemsworth’s will. If he was planning on leaving anything to his acquaintances, it would be a motive for murder. Especially one who appears less well-to-do than the others.”

Mr Bell didn’t comment as Eliza made some notes, but as she straightened up, he pointed to Mr Waverley’s name. “He’s only a bank manager yet lives on Park Street. Might he have overstretched himself and need help?”

“That’s assuming he bought the house. He may only rent it.”

“Even so, it would still be a stretch, and with acquaintances like these, he wouldn’t want to lose face by moving out.”

“True.” Eliza’s brow creased. “Don’t bank managers get preferential loans if they buy a house?”

“They do, but he’d still need a sizeable loan for one of those.”

Eliza sighed. “Can’t we just drive past and take a look? He may have the smallest house on the street.”

“There are no small houses down there, and we’re not going anyway.” Mr Bell checked his pocket watch. “It’s time we were leaving if you want to be in good time for Mrs Appleton.”

CHAPTER NINE

Connie was sitting up in bed, looking altogether more alert than she had on previous visits, and she waved to them as they walked down the already busy ward.

“I was hoping you’d come.”

“Of course we would. How are you feeling?”

“A lot better, thank you. I had a good sleep last night, and the headache’s improving. The doctor was pleased with my progress this morning.”

“That’s encouraging. Has he mentioned when you’ll be allowed home?”

“Not as such, but he suggested I wouldn’t be here by the weekend.”

“Oh, good. I’ve missed having you around.”

“I’ve missed being around.” Connie smiled at her. “Have you been helping Inspector Adams while I’ve been here?”

“Not directly. Nobody will let me do anything in case I bump into the killer.”

Connie’s eyes widened. “Killer!”

“Don’t you remember?” Eliza glanced at her father and then back at Connie.

“No. All I remember is being knocked to the ground. The next thing I remember is waking up here. Is that why the man was rushing towards us, because he’d killed someone?”

“We think so, but I don’t want you dwelling on it. You still need to rest.”

“The doctor said it would do me good to try to remember what happened. It will help my recovery.”

“Well, if he said that, do you remember anything? The appearance of the man who bumped into you, for example.”

“A little. I can visualise him now in a dark suit, and he had a hat and dark eyes…”

“You noticed his eyes?”

Connie shuddered. “He did get rather close. I only saw them for a second, but they were wild. I suppose it’s no surprise if he’d just killed someone. The second man just seemed scared.”

“You saw another man?”

“Didn’t you?”

“Not that I remember. If I did, I mustn’t have realised he was with the killer. I was too busy wondering what had happened to you. Do you remember anything about him?”

Connie put her fingers to her temples as she closed her eyes. “He was a similar height to the first man, clean-shaven, and had fair hair.”

“Are you sure?”

Connie stared at her. “I-I think so. Why?”

“The other witnesses who mentioned a second man said he was tall with dark hair tinged with grey.”

“Oh.” Connie paused. “Perhaps I’m mistaken, then. It must be the bang on the head.”

“I’ll still make a note of it. You may have seen something nobody else did. I remember seeing someone who looked younger than the killer, but I paid him no attention because I assumed he was a salesman.”

“He may have been. It all happened so quickly.”

“It did, but now I think about it, the man I saw had disappeared by the time I went over to the victim.”

Connie lay her head back on the pillow. “It’s funny how even the smallest thing is such hard work. My head’s hurting again.”

“Then you must put all thoughts out of your head immediately. And no dwelling on it once we’ve gone. The details can wait.”

“All right. As long as you tell me about the victim. Is it anyone we’d seen in the shop?”

“No. We’ve no idea who he is. There were four calling cards in his pocket and we’re presuming one of them was his. If we’re wrong, goodness knows how we’ll identify him. Inspector Adams said he’d visit each address on the cards, but we’ve not heard anything from him.” She looked across the bed to her father. “Should we call at New Scotland Yard again and tell him about the other addresses?”

Connie glanced between them. “What other addresses?”

“It’s nothing for you to worry about, but we assumed the addresses on the cards were for their businesses, so we’ve been to the library to find out where they live. That was why we were a little late.”

“Did you find what you were looking for?”

“We did, although it probably won’t help the investigation. I couldn’t sit by and do nothing.”

Connie smiled. “It may give them a clue…”

“I hope so. I don’t want there to be a killer on the loose any more than you.”

Mr Bell chuckled. “I even offered to take her back to the dining room for luncheon, but she preferred to go somewhere else.”

“Father!”

Connie’s eyes widened. “Are you frightened? Do you think he’ll come after us in case we recognise him?”

“No, I don’t. I doubt he even noticed us, the speed he was moving. Besides, how would he find us? As soon as you leave here, we’ll go back to Richmond and on to Moreton.”

“What about your dress?”

“My dress?”

“You were going to pick everything up after luncheon…”

“And we will. We’ve just not got around to it yet.”

Mr Bell interrupted. “We’ll call tomorrow on our way here. It shouldn’t take long.”

Eliza paused. “We could…”

“What’s the matter? You said you weren’t worried…”

“I-I’m not, but we need time to visit Inspector Adams as well.”

“All right. We can discuss it later.” He paused as a nurse approached.

“Mrs Appleton will be getting tired. Matron’s asked if you could leave shortly.”

“Yes, of course. May we have another minute?”

“And no more.”

Eliza squeezed Connie’s hand as the nurse left. “We’ve been allowed to sit here for longer than we did yesterday, so that must be a good sign. Hopefully, we’ll be able to stay longer again tomorrow.”

“Will you bring Frank with you?”

“Frank?”

“You know, Frank. Sergeant Cooper.”

“I didn’t mean that. I-I’m just not sure he’ll be able to join us … with being at work. If you get out of here by Saturday, we’ll be able to go back to Moreton, and there won’t be any need to trouble him.”

“He should want to come…” She stared at Eliza. “You have told him?”

“I will … now I know you’re getting better.”

“I asked you to tell him…”

“I’m sorry, but I didn’t want to worry him. Not while you were so ill.”

“I’ve been more worried that he hasn’t visited me.” A tear rolled down Connie’s cheek as the nurse reappeared beside the bed.

“What’s going on here?”

Eliza picked up her handbag. “Nothing. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset her.” She turned back to Connie. “I’ll send a letter as soon as we get to Father’s.”

Connie wiped her face with the back of a hand. “Do you promise?”

“I promise … as long as you cheer up. I want you smiling when you see him.”

“Of course I’ll smile. Just bring him here as soon as you can.”

Eliza kept her head down as the nurse ushered them towards the door, but as they approached the matron’s desk, she stopped. “Good afternoon.”

Matron stared up at her. “I hope you’re not upsetting my patient.”

“No. Not at all. She just wants to go home, that’s all. Has the doctor said anything about discharging her yet?”

“He won’t let her out while she still has the headache. He said she may still have some swelling on the brain.”

Eliza grimaced. “That sounds serious.”

“She’s getting better. Her vision is back to normal, which is a good sign.”

“Yes, it is. She’s asked me to invite her fiancé to the hospital, but he’ll be travelling a fair distance, so I wanted to make sure she’s well enough for a visit.”

“She should be by tomorrow.”

Eliza smiled. “Thank you. We’ll see you then.”

They walked out into the now quieter corridor and Mr Bell offered her an arm.

“Will you write to Sergeant Cooper?”

“What do you think?”

“That you should. I suspect she’s more worried about him than she is about herself.”

“But she shouldn’t be. He’s perfectly happy at the moment, knowing nothing about the accident and expecting her home on Sunday, which hopefully she will be. Once I tell him she’s in hospital, he’ll panic.”

Mr Bell patted her hand. “I realise you mean well, but he has a right to know.”

Eliza sighed. “I suppose I don’t want him to be angry with me for what happened.”

“It wasn’t your fault.”

“No.” She stared into the distance. “I still don’t want to write to him directly, though. What if I write to Archie and ask him to tell him? If I summarise what Matron told us, he can reassure him she’ll be all right.”

“As long as he passes on the news. I’ll ask Mrs Wood to prepare for another guest on Saturday evening.”

CHAPTER TEN

Eliza shuffled in her seat as the carriage came to a halt outside New Scotland Yard, and she waited for the coachman to open the door and roll out the steps.

“There we are, madam.”

“Thank you. I’m afraid I can’t predict how long we’ll be. A lot depends on whether Inspector Adams is available.”

“Be as long as you like. I’ll wait here and watch the boats on the river.”

“That sounds rather pleasant. Will you keep your eye on the shopping if we leave it with you? After the effort of going to the shop earlier, I really don’t want to go back again if things somehow disappear.”

“I’ll lock the door to be on the safe side.”

“Thank you.” She took Mr Bell’s arm as he joined her, and they made their way towards the building. “I hope the inspector’s here. It will slow us down if we need to wait … or worse still, come back.”

“We’ll do what we must.” He unhooked his arm as he pushed open the door. “After you.”

The constable they’d spoken to previously looked up as they approached the desk. “Morning.”

“Good morning. Is Inspector Adams available?”

“Who wants to know?”

“Mr Bell and Mrs Thomson. If you remember from the last time we were here, he’s an acquaintance of ours.”

The constable checked a sheet of paper in front of him. “You’re in luck. Follow me.”

Inspector Adams was sitting at a desk full of folders when the constable opened the door. “Mr Bell and Mrs Thomson, sir.”

“Good morning, Inspector.” Eliza smiled as she walked to the desk. “I hope we’re not disturbing anything.”

“Nothing that can’t do with interrupting. Please, take a seat. If you can find one.” He stood up to clear some files from the chairs opposite. “I really need to tidy these away.” He held the chair for Eliza as Mr Bell took the one next to her.

“Have you made any progress with the investigation?”

Inspector Adams grunted. “A little, but we’ve hit a brick wall again.”

“Oh dear.” Eliza’s forehead creased. “Is there anything we can help with?”

“You can try, but before that, we have the name of our victim. Mr Benedict Hemsworth. The barrister.”

“Gracious. A wronged convict, do you think?”

“I doubt it. The man worked for the defence, so he hasn’t technically caused anyone to be locked up.”

“Unless he did a bad job and convicted someone he shouldn’t?” Eliza raised an eyebrow, but the inspector shook his head.

“Apparently, he was one of the best in the business. He won most of his cases and those who were convicted usually received lighter sentences than were warranted.”

“May I ask who told you that?”

“Sir Reginald Fitzroy. He was a barrister himself before he retired and a colleague of the deceased.”

“It might still be worth checking if there were any cases that went against him. If they worked together, he could be hiding something.”

Inspector Adams curled his lip. “Don’t you ever take anything at face value?”

“Not in a murder investigation.” She took out her notebook and made an entry while Mr Bell continued the questioning.

“When did Sir Reginald last see Mr Bellingham?”

“He hadn’t seen him for a few days and said that at the time of the murder, he was at his club taking luncheon.”

“And you’ve confirmed that?” Eliza kept her pen poised over the paper.

He nodded. “The sergeant paid them a visit yesterday and there were plenty who confirmed Sir Reginald had been with them.”

“What about the other two? Have you spoken to them?”

“I called at the bank again and the deputy manager confirmed that Mr Waverley had been at work all day.”

“So that leaves Mr Bellingham.”

“He was less straightforward. He said he was with clients for most of Tuesday but wouldn’t give us their names as he said they were private.”

“Is that usual?”

“Apparently.”

“Hmm.” Eliza tapped her teeth with the end of her pencil. “Did he say where he held these meetings?”

“In the clients’ homes.”

“I don’t suppose he gave you their addresses.”

“Not even a hint.”

“That sounds suspicious. There must be someone who could vouch for his whereabouts.”

The inspector stood up and strolled to the window. “If there is, he didn’t mention them.”

“What about luncheon? Would he eat at a client’s house?”

The inspector studied her. “I must confess, I didn’t ask that specifically.”

“You’d think he’d have mentioned it if it gave him an alibi.” Eliza’s pencil scratched on the paper as she wrote. “Did you ask him or Mr Waverley where they live?”

“I had no reason to.”

“You may want to look at this, then.” She turned back through her notebook and thrust it across the desk. “I was at a loose end yesterday, so we called at the library.”

Inspector Adams’ eyes flicked over the page. “Is there any significance?”

“We’re not sure, but the first thing that struck us was that Mr Bellingham lives in Soho rather than Mayfair. That’s quite a comedown compared to his companions.”

“Not a reason to kill someone, though.”

Eliza shrugged. “Money and power are common motives for murder. If Mr Bellingham felt inferior to the others, or if Mr Hemsworth belittled him because of his lack of money or status, he may have wanted revenge.”

“I see what you mean. You think we should check up on it?”

“It would be worth checking his accounts to see if he was struggling.”

“I doubt he’ll give them to us when he wouldn’t give us the names of his clients.” The inspector clicked his tongue on his teeth. “You said that was the first thing. Is there more?”

She pointed to Mr Waverley’s details. “He lives in Park Street. From memory, that’s a very exclusive address. Would it be the sort of place you’d expect to find a bank manager?”

“His wife may be from a wealthy family.”

“Possibly, but it would be interesting to find out what sort of residence it is. I was hoping to walk past and take a look, but Father refused.”

“Quite right, too. You need to leave this investigation alone.” He nodded to Mr Bell. “I’ll send the sergeant there when he comes back.”

“Thank you.” Eliza sighed. “Was Sir Reginald’s house as grand as you’d expect for a knight of the realm?”

“I didn’t take much notice, to be honest. It doesn’t do to pry into how the other half live.”

“But you were invited inside?”

“Only into the morning room, which was off the kitchen. It was nice enough.”

Eliza tutted. “He lives in Grosvenor Street. I wish you’d taken me!”

“And I’m glad I didn’t…”

Eliza shook her head. “All right. Did any of these men know of any reason why someone would want Mr Hemsworth dead?”

“No, and that’s the brick wall. Apparently, he was well liked and, to the best of their knowledge, hadn’t done anything untoward.”

“Was he married?”

“He was.”

“Children?”

“Two sons. One at Cambridge studying law, the other moved to Scotland soon after he finished at Cambridge.”

“Were they both out of London on the day of his death?”

“We’ve written to confirm where they were but neither have responded yet.”

Eliza cocked her head to one side. “He must have been younger than I thought if he still has a son at Cambridge.”

“He was fifty-eight. His wife is ten years his junior, and they had the boys late.”

Very late. “Do you know if he left a will?”

“He did, but I’ve been told there was nothing contentious in it. He left most of his wealth to his sons, with lifetime provision for his wife. Not the sort of thing to get killed over.”

“Hmm. That doesn’t help or give us any motive. What about the witnesses at the shop? Or the salesmen. Have you learned any more from them?”

“They’re not a priority at the moment. They’ve given us statements and descriptions of the men leaving the scene, so there’s not much more to add.”

“Maybe not, but I was speaking to Mrs Appleton yesterday…”

Inspector Adams turned to face her. “Forgive me, I’ve not asked how she is.”

“She’s recovering nicely, thank you. We hope she’ll be out of hospital by the weekend.”

“That’s good news. I’ve been expecting Sergeant Cooper to turn up demanding to know if we’ve caught the animal who did it.”

“I’ve not told him yet.” Eliza grimaced. “I wrote to Dr Thomson last night and asked him to explain the situation. I didn’t want to worry him…”

“Quite wise. He’d have been up here like a shot … but I interrupted. What did Mrs Appleton say?”

“Oh, yes. She didn’t remember much about the attack other than she thought there were two men running towards her.”

“She’s right, isn’t she?” Inspector Adams flicked through the statements. “Yes, here we are. Mr Radcliffe said the second man was chasing the first.”

“May I ask how he described the second man?”

Inspector Adams found the relevant section. “He didn’t really, other than to say he was dressed in a dark suit, similar to the first man.”

“And he had dark hair?”

“That was going grey, yes. Why?”

“Mrs Appleton said that the man she saw had fair hair.”

Inspector Adams groaned as he peered out towards the river. “Are you suggesting we’re looking for a third man?”

“I really couldn’t say. Mrs Appleton pointed out that she’s had a nasty bang on the head, so her recollections may not be as accurate as they should be.”

“We shouldn’t dismiss the possibility of there being someone else, though, if that’s what she said. It looks like I’ll have to speak to Mr Radcliffe and Mr Ashcroft again and ask about this fair-haired man. There may be a perfectly innocent explanation.”

Eliza studied him. “I hesitate to mention this, but did you ask the three men on the calling cards if they had any links with Lord Lowton?”

“I did, as it happens. The only one who claimed to have any association with him was Mr Waverley. He has a daughter of similar age to Lady Alice, and they often attend the same events.”

“Mr Waverley’s daughter is part of Lady Alice’s social group? Gracious! Her father’s only a bank manager…”

“As I said, it may be the mother with money and influence. I suppose I should go back and check.”

“There’s no rush. We’re in Richmond this weekend and I’ve invited Lady Alice to dinner with Henry. I’ll ask her what she knows of the family.”

The inspector’s eyes widened. “Please don’t mention the Waverleys in the same breath as Lord Lowton. The chief constable will have my guts for garters.”

Eliza tutted. “Give me some credit, Inspector. I’ve done this before.”

“Even so. The subject of Lord Lowton is very touchy.”

“Then I’ll be careful. What about the others?”

“Both were aware of Lord Lowton, of course, but neither was acquainted.”

“What about Mr Hemsworth, our victim? Did he know him … or have any involvement with his trial?”

“He didn’t. The chief told me that much when he called me back here on Tuesday. He also forbade me from contacting him.”

“Ah. Is the same true for his friend, Lord Beaumont?”

“Mr Beaumont, you mean?”

“I suppose I do, since the court revoked his peerage. He must be bitter.”

“I expect so, but again, Mr Hemsworth had no business with his trial. Besides, his only punishment was losing his title.”

“Which isn’t so terrible in the greater scheme of things.” Eliza cast her eyes over her notes. “So, we’ve a few things to follow up on…”

“Correction. I have. I want you to stay out of this … other than speaking to Lady Alice.”

“Don’t worry, Inspector, I’ll keep an eye on her.” Mr Bell grinned. “Should we be going? Mrs Appleton will wonder where we are.”

Inspector Adams stared at them. “Are you going to the hospital now?”

“We are.”

“Would you mind if I accompany you? I could do with taking a statement from Mrs Appleton if she’s well enough. After that, I’ll bid you farewell, and as soon as Mrs Appleton is discharged from hospital, I want you to go to Moreton and stay there. For your own safety.”

“We’ll go as soon as we can, but what if we find out anything new from Lady Alice?”

“Write to me. The less you’re seen here, the better.”

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Rain was in the air the following morning as Eliza sat in the drawing room flicking through a magazine.

“There’s not much in here this week.”

Mr Bell peered over the top of his newspaper. “You mean there’s nothing as exciting as solving a murder?”

“Exactly.” She sighed and tossed the magazine to one side. “I’m sure I could help Inspector Adams if he’d let me. When we spoke to him, there were things he hadn’t even considered.”

“But you pointed him in the right direction, and as soon as Mrs Appleton gets home, you’ll have other things on your mind.”

“You’re right.” She glanced at the clock. “We’ll have to be going shortly. I hope Matron was right when she said Connie could come home today.”

“She looked well enough yesterday when she gave her statement to Inspector Adams, so there’s no reason she shouldn’t.”

“I hope not. Shall we go through to the dining room for luncheon?”

“I’m not sure Cook will be ready, but we can do.” Mr Bell folded his newspaper but paused when there was a knock on the door. “Who on earth’s this?”

Eliza turned to the door as Mrs Wood showed their visitor in. “Archie! What are you doing here?”

“I’m here to find out what’s going on and why I only found out about Mrs Appleton’s accident yesterday evening.” He didn’t smile as he acknowledged Mr Bell. “I presume she’s still in hospital.”

Eliza stood up. “We’re hoping to bring her home this afternoon.”

“That still doesn’t explain why you didn’t tell me. What happened?”

“There was an incident in Harrods, and we got caught in the aftermath as two men ran away. One of them bumped into Connie and she fell and banged her head.”

“What sort of incident?”

Eliza pursed her lips. “A man was murdered.”

“Murdered!” Archie cursed under his breath. “Were you hurt?”

“No, just a little shaken.”

“Why didn’t you write straight away?”

“I didn’t mean to keep anything from you, but I wanted to check on Connie first, to make sure she was getting better…”

“But what if she wasn’t? What if she was more seriously injured than you thought? Sergeant Cooper had a right to know…”

Tears welled in Eliza’s eyes. “I’m sorry, but I always assumed she’d get better. And she will.” She took a deep breath. “What did Sergeant Cooper say when you told him?”

“I didn’t go to the station until this morning, and he was out. I didn’t want to leave a message.”

“So, he doesn’t know?”

“No. I was planning to tell him this evening, but if Mrs Appleton’s well enough to go home, you and she can tell him between you.”

“Not this evening. I wasn’t sure when she’d be discharged and so I invited Henry and Lady Alice to join us for dinner tonight. It would be nice if you could stay, too, and escort us home tomorrow. Connie probably shouldn’t travel so soon after coming out of hospital either, and having you with us would make me feel better.”

“I thought your father would be with you.”

“He will be, but…”

“Actually…” Mr Bell interrupted. “…if Archie’s able to escort you, I’d prefer to stay here.”

Eliza gasped. “But you can’t. It’s not safe.”

“We’ve been through this, and I told you I can’t stay in Moreton forever.”

“But…”

“But nothing. I’ll be perfectly safe here.” He looked at Archie. “Will you stay until tomorrow?”

“If I must, although I wish I’d had a little more notice.”

“I’m sorry. I was only doing what I thought was for the best. If you join us for luncheon, I’ll tell you all about it.”

By the time they reached the hospital, Connie was dressed, and she waved as Eliza led Archie and Mr Bell onto the ward. Her smile dropped as they approached.

“Where’s Frank?”

“Good afternoon.” Archie sat on the bed beside her. “I tried to speak to him this morning, but he was away from the station.”

“Away where?”

“Constable Jenkins didn’t say.”

“So, he still doesn’t know?” Connie looked between him and Eliza, who stood to her left. “Why didn’t you write to him directly?”

“Because I didn’t want to frighten him. I thought that Archie would put his mind at rest rather than letting him read about you in a letter. He cares so much about you…”

“Eliza’s right.” Archie took Connie’s hand. “We didn’t want him fearing the worst when there was no need.”

“Did you leave a message with Constable Jenkins?”

“I decided it was best not to.”

Connie’s shoulders dropped. “He’ll be so cross that I haven’t told him.”

Eliza perched on the chair beside her. “I’m the one he should be angry with. You were in no state to write to anyone. At least now, you’ll be fit and well when you see him. He’d be none the wiser if you didn’t tell him.”

Connie gasped. “I can’t do that.”

“Oh, I’m not suggesting you do. It’s just that you’re looking a lot better than you did. Has the headache completely gone now?”

She put a hand to her head. “It has, thankfully. It cleared yesterday and so far it hasn’t come back.” Connie paused as Matron joined them and looked at Archie.

“I presume you’re here to escort Mrs Appleton home.”

“We are indeed.”

Eliza stood up and encouraged Archie to his feet. “This is my husband, Dr Thomson. He’ll be able to keep an eye on her.”

“I’m hoping she won’t need any special care, but if you could check her vital signs for the next day or two, I’m sure it would be prudent.”

“You have my word, Matron.” Archie offered Connie his arm. “Shall we go?”

Cook had prepared a splendid dinner of roast loin of venison with buttered potatoes, carrots and peas, and as Eliza finished her last mouthful, she set down her knife and fork.

“That was lovely.”

Archie agreed. “I’ve not eaten much venison since I left Scotland. It makes a pleasant change. How are you managing, Mrs Appleton?”

“Fine, thank you, although I’m not sure I’ll eat everything. It’s certainly an improvement on hospital food.”

Henry looked across the table at her. “Do you remember much about the accident?”

“Not really. I saw a man rushing towards me, but then everything went black. I didn’t realise there’d been a murder until your mother told me.”

Lady Alice’s eyes flicked around the table, but she said nothing as Henry patted her hand.

“Don’t look so worried. Mother and Mrs Appleton were just in the wrong place.”

“I see.”

Eliza bit her lip as she looked at Lady Alice. “Did you see the name of the victim in the newspaper? Mr Benedict Hemsworth, a barrister.” Take this gently. “Have you heard of him?”

“No … I can’t say I have.”

“The police have no idea who the killer is. They found some cards in Mr Hemsworth’s pocket, so they’ve started with them.”

Lady Alice nodded but said nothing.

“There are a few interesting names. Sir Reginald Fitzroy was one, and who were the others … oh, now it will come to me…” She turned to her father. “Mr Bell… something.”

“Bellingham,” Mr Bell offered.

“Yes, Mr Bellingham. Rupert Bellingham. I should remember with the similarity to your name. Henry, you said the name sounded familiar. Have you had any thoughts why?”

“I’ve not tried, to be honest.” He turned to Lady Alice. “Is he someone I might have come across at Lowton Hall?”

“I-I don’t think so. I’m not aware of anyone called Rupert.”

“I doubt you’ll have heard of the other man either.” Eliza looked again at her father. “The bank manager. Who was it?”

“Mr Waverley?”

“Yes. Percival Waverley.”

Lady Alice sat quite still until Henry stroked her hand. “What’s the matter? Do you know him?”

“I-I think I might be acquainted with his daughter, Belinda.”

“Really?” Eliza raised an eyebrow. “That surprises me.”

“I-I don’t know her terribly well. I mean, I’ve said ‘Good morning’ or ‘Good evening’, but we’re not friends.”

“It seems strange that a bank manager’s daughter mixes in your social circle.”

Lady Alice turned to Henry. “I’ve never really thought about it. As I said, we’re not close.”

“Never mind. I’m sure it’s not important. Tell me, how’s Lady Caroline?”

Lady Alice relaxed. “She’s back to her usual self, running after Father.”

“She must be pleased he’s home.”

Lady Alice again stiffened and looked at Henry, who replied for her.

“Alice doesn’t like to be dishonest, but she also doesn’t like to speak ill of her mother and father. The truth is, Lady Caroline would have preferred not to go back to how things were before.”

“Ah.”

Lady Alice found her voice. “She was as happy as I’d seen her, helping Albert run the estate.”

“So having Lord Lowton back is a shock to the system. How’s he settled in?”

“He’s rather grumpy, especially now that Lord Beaumont doesn’t live in the area.”

“He’s moved?”

“Not exactly. He already had a property in London and since his wife died, he spends most of his time there.”

“So you don’t see much of him?”

“I haven’t seen him since Father left.”

“He’ll be at the wedding, though?”

“I presume so. Mother’s in charge of the guest list.”

Henry lowered his voice and leaned towards Lady Alice. “Mother’s worried about seeing your father and Lord Beaumont again.”

“My mother’s worried about that, too.”

Eliza gulped. “Has she said that?”

“She doesn’t need to. If ever we’re talking about plans for the day, and Father joins us, she changes the subject. He’s no idea it’s going to be such a grand event.”

“I presume he’s been told we’ll be there.”

Lady Alice stared at her. “We’re hoping he’s worked it out for himself.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

The journey back to Moreton was subdued and as the carriage took them from the railway station to the village, Eliza pulled herself away from the view out of the window.

“Have we missed anything while we’ve been away?”

Archie shrugged. “I don’t think so. Not that I’ve been paying the same attention as you would.”

“I’ll have to visit Mrs Petty. She’ll give me full chapter and verse.”

Archie laughed. “And take up most of the afternoon as well, I don’t doubt.”

“I won’t go today… We need to make sure Connie’s settled before we do anything else.”

Connie smiled. “I’m sure I’ll be fine. Especially once I see Frank.”

Archie collected up his hat as the carriage came to a standstill. “I’ll speak to him as soon as I’ve seen you into the house.” He turned to Eliza. “Is Mrs Appleton joining us for luncheon?”

“I hope so.” She looked at Connie.

“I will, if you don’t mind. I won’t have anything in.”

“Of course we don’t mind. You can move in for a few days if you’d rather not be on your own.”

“There’s no need for that. I’d like to forget what happened and get on with things.”

“Very well, but if you change your mind…” Eliza climbed down from the carriage, and once Connie joined her, they made their way to the drawing room. Eliza placed her handbag on a settee.

“I love visiting London, but it’s always nice to be home.”

“Would you mind if I go next door before we eat? I’d like to open a few windows and set the fire?”

“Why don’t we go now before Archie arrives with Sergeant Cooper?”

Connie wrung her hands. “I don’t want to miss him.”

“And you won’t. We can be quick, and he won’t be going anywhere until he’s seen you. Come along. I’ll do the windows while you do the fire.”

Eliza had made it to the bedroom window by the time Archie approached the surgery and opened the gate for the sergeant. She took a deep breath. Here we go. She hurried down the stairs. “Are you ready? Sergeant Cooper’s just arrived.”

“Oh, gosh, no. Look at my hands. I’ll have to finish this later.” Connie stood up as the door opened and Sergeant Cooper burst in.

“Oh, my dear. What happened to you? Come here.”

Eliza’s mouth fell open as Sergeant Cooper wrapped his arms around Connie.

“S-she’s fine now…”

“It was horrible.” Connie’s voice squeaked as she relaxed into the sergeant’s embrace. “It was even worse that you didn’t visit me.”

“But I didn’t know. Why didn’t you tell me?”

Eliza grimaced as Sergeant Cooper’s eyes searched her out. “She really wasn’t able to write when it first happened.”

“Were you hurt, too?”

“No. Well, not physically. I was shocked naturally and very upset. I wanted to make sure she was on the mend before I wrote so you wouldn’t worry, but then she made a quicker recovery than we could have hoped for.”

Sergeant Cooper looked less than convinced but turned his attention back to Connie. “It’s all right now. We’ll be married in a couple of weeks, and I’ll be able to look after you properly. There’ll be no more gallivanting and putting yourself in harm’s way.”

“It was an accident…” Eliza stopped as Archie shot her a glance. “Well, it was.”

“It may have been, but it’s clearly shaken Mrs Appleton.” Archie caught hold of Eliza’s arm. “Shall we go next door and I’ll pour us all a sherry?”

Eliza lowered her voice. “We shouldn’t leave them!”

“It’s all right. We’ll come with you.” Connie wiped her face on the back of her hands, leaving a black streak of soot down her left cheek. “May I get myself tidied up first?”

“Of course.” Archie strode to the door. “Sergeant, would you like to join me and the ladies can follow?”

“Right you are.” He squeezed Connie’s hand as he pulled away. “I won’t be far away.”

Eliza closed the door behind them as Connie disappeared into her small kitchen. “Let me get you a face cloth.”

“Do you think he was angry with me?”

“Hardly. I’d say he loves you very much and was thankful to have you back in one piece. I imagine it’s the first time he’s held you like that.”

Connie gazed through the small kitchen window. “It was lovely after so many years…”

“Then cheer up. You don’t have long to wait until he can do that every day.” She handed her the wet face cloth. “Give your face a good wipe while I put a scoop of coal on the fire, then we can go.”

Sergeant Cooper stood up as they arrived in the drawing room and offered Connie the seat beside him on the settee.

“How are you feeling?”

“Better for seeing you.” She smiled as Eliza sat on the settee opposite, beside Archie.

“Unfortunately, she had a bang on the head and the hospital wanted to keep her under observation.”

Connie nodded. “I had a terrible headache…”

“But it’s gone now?”

“It has.”

Archie leaned forward. “I’ll keep a close eye on her for the next few days, but I’m sure she’ll be fine now.”

“I hope so.” The sergeant patted Connie’s hand as he looked at Eliza. “Dr Thomson tells me someone was murdered at the same time.”

“Yes. Unfortunately, we were caught in the aftermath, as the killer was escaping.”

“Have they caught the killer yet?”

“No, but Inspector Adams is running the investigation, so I’m hoping we’ll hear when they do.”

“I’m surprised you’re not helping him.”

Eliza sighed. “Unfortunately, he wouldn’t let me. He said that because I saw the killer, and because of Connie’s predicament, it was too risky for me to speak to any of the suspects.”

“Does he think they’ll come after you?”

“Not now we’re in Moreton. He just didn’t want me walking around Mayfair, which is where all the men on the calling cards had premises.”

“I still don’t like it.” The sergeant turned to Connie. “Did you see the killer?”

“If he was the man who bumped into me, then yes, but we don’t know for sure that he was the killer.”

“Even so…”

“We should be all right. He won’t have any idea who we are or how to find us.”

“I suppose so.” He patted Connie’s hand. “We need to keep you safe until the wedding. I’ll be with you after that.”

Eliza spoke up. “She can stay with us if that makes you feel any better.”

“It certainly would.”

Connie squirmed in her seat. “I’ll be fine at home … and I’m only next door.”

“That’s no good in the middle of the night. I’d like you to stay here.”

“Very well. If you think it’s for the best.”

“Did you get your shoes?”

Connie put a hand to her lips. “Gosh, no, I quite forgot about them.”

“It clearly was a nasty bang you got. It was all you talked about before you left.”

“We can go to London again,” Eliza said. “We could call on Inspector Adams while we’re there.”

“No. I don’t want Connie leaving the village, let alone going back to London.” The sergeant stared at Archie. “You can’t allow this.”

“And I won’t. I told Eliza before they went last week that there’s a perfectly good shoe shop in Over Moreton. I’ll escort them over there one day to sort Mrs Appleton out.”

Eliza glanced at those around her. So that’s it. After everything we’ve been through, Connie’s days as my companion are over.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Eliza sighed as she handed the last of the morning’s patients his medicine.

“There you are. Dissolve one measure of powder in water each morning and again in the evening until you’ve used them all.”

“Will do, ma’am. Thank you.” He doffed his cap to her and limped to the door as Mrs Hartley let herself in. Eliza smiled as the gentleman closed it behind him.

“Good morning. I didn’t expect you here. Do you need to see Dr Thomson?”

“I’m afraid I do. I was in the garden about half an hour ago and managed to trip over an old pot and cut my leg. Would Dr Thomson be able to look at it?”

“I expect so. Follow me.”

Archie was collecting up several sheets of paper when they got to the office, and Eliza knocked to get his attention.

“Do you have time to see Mrs Hartley? She’s cut her leg.”

He glanced at his pocket watch. “Just about. Another five minutes and I’d have gone on my house calls.”

“I’m sorry to be so late, but I’ve not long since done it and then I needed to stop the bleeding before I came here.”

“There’s no need to apologise. Eliza, could you help Mrs Hartley onto the bed and I’ll take a look?”

Once the patient was settled, Eliza turned to leave, but Mrs Hartley called her back.

“You don’t need to go on my behalf. I was hoping to have a word with you…” She winced as Archie removed her home-made dressing.

“That looks nasty. What did you do it on?”

“An old pot.”

“I need to clean it up and then we need some iodine to stop any infection.” He looked at the shelves on the far wall. “Eliza, could you get the bottle and a dropper for me while I wipe away the blood? You did a good job of stopping the bleeding. We may get away without needing stitches.”

“Oh, I hope so.” Mrs Hartley waited as Eliza placed the bottle beside Archie. “Is this going to sting?”

“I’m afraid so. Eliza, would you hold Mrs Hartley’s hand? Mrs Hartley, take a deep breath for me.”

Before she had fully inhaled, Archie dropped several spots of the dark brown liquid onto the wound.

“Arghhhh…”

Quite. Eliza flinched as Mrs Hartley squeezed her hand.

“I’m sorry about that, but that should be the worst of it.” Archie pressed a dressing onto the wound and squirted the remaining iodine back into the bottle. “I’ll put a clean bandage on. Keep it dry for the next few days while it scabs over.”

There were tears in Mrs Hartley’s eyes as she looked down at her leg. “Thank you. That will teach me to watch where I’m going.”

“Accidents happen.” Archie secured the bandage with a safety pin. “That should hold it. Now, I suggest you stay where you are until the pain subsides. It shouldn’t take long. I’m sorry to rush but Eliza will keep you company.” He looked at his wife as he reached for his Gladstone bag. “I’ll speak to you at luncheon.”

Mrs Hartley wiped her brow as he left. “I appreciate he did the right thing, but goodness, that stings.”

“It’s for the best.” Eliza pulled up a chair. “You said you wanted to speak to me.”

“Only to invite you for afternoon tea. I missed you while you were in London and so thought you could tell me how you got on.”

“Ah, that could take a while. The only thing is, Mrs Appleton’s staying with me at the moment…”

“Is she all right?”

“Yes, and no. I’ll tell you about it later, but would you mind coming here? She’s not been at her best over the last few days.”

“I’m not sure I’ll be up to walking here again once I get home.”

“You’re right, I wasn’t thinking. Let me see if I can persuade her to come to Oak House, then.”

“Shall we say three o’clock? You sound like you have a lot to tell me.”

Eliza grimaced. “I do. I just hope you’ve had a quieter time here.”

Connie clung to Eliza’s arm as they crossed the village green on their way to Mrs Hartley’s. When she looked over her shoulder for the third time in a minute, Eliza stopped.

“What is the matter?”

“Don’t you sense anything? A feeling that we’re being watched?”

“No.” Eliza turned a full circle. “Who by? There’s no one around.”

Connie scanned the roads circling the village green. “I’m sorry. It must be the bump on the head.”

“You weren’t like this yesterday … or when we brought you out of hospital.”

“We had your father or Dr Thomson with us then. It’s different when we’re on our own.”

“We’ve made this journey hundreds of times before and we’ve never had a problem. Why should we now? I bet Mrs Petty’s in the window, wondering what we’re doing.”

Connie looked across to their neighbour’s house. “No, she’s not there.”

Eliza stared at her neighbour’s large window, which had a prime view over the village. “That’s unusual. She must be making afternoon tea. We’ll call tomorrow and find out what we’ve missed. Come along, we need to get a move on.” She retook Connie’s arm, and as the clock struck three, she marched her across the road. “Mrs Hartley will think we’re not coming.”

The autumn sun cast warm shadows on the double-height bay windows to either side of the front door at Oak House, and Eliza looked up at the sandstone walls before she knocked on the door. “I do like coming back here.”

“I’m not surprised. It’s a lovely house. Do you think Mr Bell would buy it again if Mrs Hartley decided to sell?”

“I doubt it … not for him to live in, anyway…” Eliza stopped as Mrs Hartley opened the front door with a smile.

“You’re here.”

“I’m sorry we’re late. Mrs Appleton thought we were being watched…”

Mrs Hartley gasped. “Are the men back?”

“Men? What men?” Eliza stared at Connie, who had frozen. “We didn’t see anyone. In fact, the place was rather quiet.”

“Oh, that’s a relief. Come on in. I’m sorry if I startled you.” She led the way up the stairs and into the drawing room, where she gestured to two chairs near the fireplace. An occasional table was already filled with tea and cakes. “It’s not been made long. Cook wanted to nip out, so I suggested she make it in advance.”

“Is your daughter not at home?”

“She has one of her headaches, so she’s gone for a lie-down.”

“Oh dear. Is that a regular thing?”

“Not really. It only happens every few weeks, maybe once a month, and then she’s as right as rain.”

“Well, if she ever needs anything for them, you know where we are.”

“I do. Thank you.”

“How’s your leg?”

“Still smarting, to tell you the truth, although not as much as it was. I’m sure I’ll be fine by tomorrow.” Mrs Hartley picked up the milk jug and poured some into each cup. “You both take sugar, don’t you?”

“Yes, please. Two each.”

Connie interrupted, “Before we go on, may I ask about the men? What did you mean?”

“Oh, I’m sure it’s nothing, but I went to the shop this morning and I walked home with Mrs Petty. She asked if I’d seen a couple of strange men in the village yesterday. Naturally, I hadn’t, because I haven’t been out since I last saw you.”

Eliza’s brow furrowed. “Did she get a description of them?”

“I couldn’t say for sure, but I expect so. You know how she likes to watch what’s going on.”

Connie’s face was pale as they spoke, and Mrs Hartley handed her a cup of tea.

“Is everything alright?”

“I-I don’t know…”

Eliza sighed. “She ended up in hospital last week and she’s still recovering.”

“Oh, goodness. Let me settle down and you can give me all the details.”

Eliza flinched as the clock on the mantelpiece struck five o’clock.

“Good grief, doesn’t time fly when you’re enjoying yourself? We’d better let you get on.”

Mrs Hartley smiled. “I’m not in a hurry to do anything. You will call again, won’t you? Especially if you learn any more from Mrs Petty.”

“We will, although next time, you really must come to me.” Eliza stood up and collected up her handbag and gloves. “Send my compliments to Cook. She makes a lovely cake.”

Mrs Hartley walked them to the gate, and once they’d passed through to the footpath, she locked it behind them. “You can’t be too careful.”

“You’re fortunate you have a gate to lock. I’ll speak to you later in the week to tell you how we’re getting on.”

Connie had little to say as they left the house, and Eliza studied her as she linked her arm.

“You’ve been quiet this afternoon.”

Connie shrugged. “You and Mrs Hartley had enough to discuss, and I didn’t like to interrupt.”

“That’s not true. Are you still nervous about being outside?”

“I suppose so. Especially if there are two men on the loose.”

“It’s probably something and nothing. You know what Mrs Petty’s like for exaggerating. I’ll tell you what, let’s walk home the long way around, past the pond. It’s always relaxing at that end of the village.”

Connie nodded. “As long as we don’t stay too long.”

“We won’t.”

They turned left out of the side road and crossed the road onto the footpath leading to the far end of the village.

“It’s a lovely day for this time of the year. I hope it lasts until your wedding.”

“I’ll be happy as long as it doesn’t rain while I’m on my way to the church. Not that it will matter if it does. I’m ready to be married now. I shouldn’t wish my life away, but I can’t help myself.”

“It will come around soon enough. You’ve only a week to wait.”

“I’m counting the days.” Connie shuddered as they rounded the last bend before the pond.

“What’s the matter?”

“The trees. Can you see? There are a lot of crows.”

“Don’t you like them?”

“Not particularly. Can we hurry up?”

“It will spoil the relaxing walk I was hoping for, but you’re right. It does seem strange with so many of them around.” Eliza increased her pace, but slowed again as she drew level with the water. “What’s that?”

“What’s what?”

“That pile of material.”

Connie glanced up at the trees and took a step backwards. “Does it matter?”

“Wait there a moment while I have a look.” She waved her arms above her head to chase the crows, but when they refused to move, she lowered her head as she crept forward. She jumped back with a start as she stood on a twig, but once she’d gathered her breath, she took another couple of steps. Surely that can’t be a foot. She stopped as her eyes adjusted to the dim light. Oh my goodness, it is.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Eliza took several steps backwards, her heart pounding as she stared at the leg that was now obvious. Don’t panic. Connie’s voice broke into her thoughts.

“What is it?”

What on earth do I say? “Shall we start walking and I’ll tell you on the way?” She pulled her eyes from the scene and hurried towards the path. “We need to go.”

Connie remained where she was. “You wanted a relaxing walk two minutes ago. What did you see?”

Eliza took Connie’s arm and led her towards the road. “If you must know…” I’ll have to tell her sooner or later “…it looked like a man’s foot … and leg. Probably his torso too…”

The colour drained from Connie’s already pale face. “A body?”

Eliza pursed her lips. “I would say so. I’d like to get home and tell Archie. We should visit Sergeant Cooper, too.”

“But…”

“Please. Don’t talk. We need to get you home.”

As soon as they reached the house, Eliza ushered Connie into the morning room.

“Are you all right in here while I find Archie?”

She nodded slowly. “Will you lock the door?”

“Of course. I’ll ask Iris to bring you a cup of tea, too. I won’t be long.”

She hurried to the kitchen, and after finding Iris, she set off in search of Archie. He looked up from his desk when she stepped into the surgery.

“Are you busy?”

“Not especially. Why? You look as if you’ve seen a ghost.”

“I-I have. In a manner of speaking. There’s a body by the pond.”

“A body…?” Archie’s mouth opened and closed several times before he found the right words. “You’re sure?”

“I’ve seen enough of them lately. Will you come and take a look?”

“Do I have any choice?” Archie grabbed his bag. “Do you know who it is?”

“No, other than it’s a man. It looks like his head and upper body are in the water, but I didn’t get too close.”

“I should hope not. We’ll need Sergeant Cooper, too. Is Mrs Appleton up to going for him?”

“No. She was with me when we found him, and she’s in a state of shock. I’ve settled her in the morning room and asked Iris to make her a cup of sweet, milky tea.”

“Ask her to sit with Mrs Appleton, while we’re out, too. She shouldn’t be left alone.”

“You’re right, I will. We need to hurry, though, before someone else stumbles upon it.”

“Given that it’s nearly dinner time, there shouldn’t be many people about.”

“I hope you’re right.” Eliza dashed to the kitchen where Iris was arranging the tray. “There’s no need to set a place for me. I need to nip out. Would you mind sitting with Mrs Appleton while I’m gone? She’s feeling a little under the weather.”

“Oh dear. As long as she doesn’t mind…”

“She won’t. I’ll pop in and tell her…”

Archie was waiting in the hall as she left the kitchen. “Are you ready?”

“Give me a minute…”

Connie was standing at the window, her arms wrapped around her torso.

“Are you all right?”

She shook her head as she turned around. “I’m frightened.”

“There’s no need to be. Iris is nearly ready with the tea, and she’s going to sit with you while I show Archie … you know. I’ll be as quick as I can.”

“What about Frank? You’ll need to tell him.”

“We will … just as soon as Archie’s confirmed what’s what. Please don’t worry.”

Eliza took a deep breath as she returned to the hall. “I’m ready. I’ll go for Sergeant Cooper once I’ve shown you where you’re going.” She took Archie’s arm as they headed towards the pond. “There were a lot of crows in the trees, which made it quite eerie. That’s what made me curious.”

“It’s to be hoped they’ve not started pecking at the body.”

Eliza shuddered at the thought, but Archie strode forward, clapping his hands and giving a series of calls to startle the birds.

“That won’t keep them away for long, but let’s see what we’ve got.” He approached the body cautiously, but as he drew level, he stooped down in the long grass and reached for the more prominent leg. “It’s a dead weight.” He rummaged through the reeds to reveal the head and shoulders partly submerged beneath the water. “That would explain why. I probably shouldn’t do much more before Sergeant Cooper gets here. Are you able to fetch him while I wait?”

Eliza stepped backwards. “I’d rather that than the other way around. I won’t be long.” She turned and hurried to the road, looking over her shoulder as a branch snapped nearby. Don’t be silly, there’s no one else here. She hadn’t gone fifty feet when she saw Sergeant Cooper heading towards the surgery from the opposite direction. He waited outside as she approached, his brow creased.

“Where’s Mrs Appleton?”

“She’s perfectly safe in my morning room, but before you visit, would you come with me? I was on my way to fetch you.”

“What’s going on?”

Eliza grimaced. “Would you mind if we don’t talk now? I’m rather out of breath and Archie’s waiting for us.”

“Dr Thomson? I don’t like the sound of that.”

“No, well…” Eliza walked as fast as she was able, but slowed as they approached the pond. Archie stepped forward to greet the sergeant.

“That was nice and prompt. I presume Eliza’s told you about the body?”

“Body! No. Not a word. Whose body?”

“That’s what we don’t know. I didn’t want to move him until you’d seen the scene.” Archie clapped his hands again to frighten the crows that had returned. “He’s over here.”

“Are we looking at an accident?”

“It may well be. I’m hoping he slipped and banged his head, but we’ll find out soon enough…”

As she followed the gentlemen to the edge of the water, Eliza got a better view of the man’s dark trousers and black shoes, but she paused as Archie beckoned the sergeant forward.

“I’d say he’s been dead for a while, but it will be impossible to tell until we get him out of here.”

“I’ll need to make a note of the details first.” Sergeant Cooper straightened up and spent several minutes drawing the scene. Once he was satisfied, he placed his notebook back in his top pocket. “How do we move him?”

Archie stepped closer to the water. “I’ll lift the torso if you take the legs. We can place him on the grass and turn him over once he’s out.”

“Right you are.”

Eliza stood to one side watching water drip from the man’s head as it became visible. His vivid blue eyes stared out at her as Archie tilted his shoulders to lift them off the floor, and she shuddered as Sergeant Cooper staggered backwards holding the legs. They hadn’t gone far when she let out a shriek. “Be careful. There’s a knife!”

Archie cursed under his breath. “Why am I not surprised? Where?”

“Under his ribs on the right-hand side. You’ll need to turn him away from it.”

“All right. Slowly does it.”

The body was clearly heavy, but after some careful manoeuvring, Archie settled the man on his back and stood up to study him. “Do we have any idea who he is?”

Sergeant Cooper scratched his head. “The water’s disfigured his face, but he doesn’t look familiar.”

Eliza took a sharp intake of breath. “He doesn’t, but the knife does.”

“The knife?” Archie studied her. “What do you mean?”

“It has the same handle as the one found in the body at Harrods. It’s also protruding from the same place … and it’s been twisted under the right-hand ribs.”

“You’re sure?”

Eliza nodded. “I don’t forget details like that. Especially when it only happened last week.”

“No.”

Sergeant Cooper bent down and reached into the man’s pockets. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to find out who he is.”

“More to the point, we need to find out why he was here.” I hope the two cases aren’t linked. Connie will be beside herself.

“Ah! Here we are. A wallet … and the water hasn’t got to it.” Eliza gulped as Sergeant Cooper flicked it open. “Three shillings and sixpence, plus a return rail ticket.”

“Is that all? Would you check his top pocket for me?”

“I can do that. Now, what do we have here? Four cards.”

“Don’t tell me. They each have different names…”

He stared at her. “How do you know?”

“I’d hazard a guess that the names are Sir Reginald Fitzroy, Mr Percival Waverley, Mr Rupert Bellingham and Mr Benedict Hemsworth.”

Archie stared at the sergeant. “Is she right?”

“She is. Are they the names found on the man in Harrods?”

She nodded. “They’re the same down to them being in his top pocket.”

The sergeant’s face blanched. “We can’t tell Mrs Appleton…”

“I’m afraid she already knows about the body. She was with me when I found it.”

“I’d rather not tell her it’s linked to her attack.”

“I agree.” Eliza sighed. “You probably won’t thank me for saying this, Sergeant, but we’ll have to send a telegram to Inspector Adams. He’s in charge of the other case and he interviewed three of the men on the calling cards while he was determining the identity of Mr Hemsworth. I suspect he’ll be the quickest way to find out who our victim is.”

The sergeant groaned. “You’re right. We’d have to alert him in any case. In the meantime, we need to move the body. We can’t leave it here overnight.”

Archie agreed. “We can keep it at the surgery until the coroner arrives. Sergeant, will you wait here while I go for the stretcher? Eliza, you come with me. I’ve a feeling Mrs Appleton will need some company.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Eliza sighed as she took the seat opposite Archie at the breakfast table.

“No Mrs Appleton this morning?”

“The sedative you gave her last night worked well. She was still asleep when I popped my head in.”

“That’s probably a blessing.”

Eliza picked up the teapot and poured herself a cup. “I’m worried about her. She’s not been herself since the accident.”

“It was only a week ago. She needs time.”

“I don’t mean the bang to her head. I mean, she’s very nervous.”

“It’s understandable. She’s been through quite an ordeal.”

“Finding this body won’t help.” She reached for a piece of toast. “The murder is clearly linked to the one in London, but why would the killer come to Moreton? It makes no sense. I’ve never met any of the men on the calling cards.”

Archie dropped a lump of sugar into his cup of tea. “I’m hoping it’s a coincidence, but I’m not sure I believe in such things.”

“You think they were looking for me or Connie?”

His brow creased as he stirred his tea. “Not with any certainty, but I can’t say I’m not concerned.”

“But assuming the man was looking for us, how would he know where to find us? And why did he end up dead himself?”

He shook his head. “I really can’t answer that.”

“Perhaps the murders are connected to Lord Lowton, after all. That’s the only reason I can give to explain how they know where we live.”

“These are questions for Inspector Adams. Have you heard what time he’s expected?”

“I imagine he’ll be early. This will be quite a shock to him, given that it’s linked to his ongoing case.” She took a sip of tea. “Will you be able to manage without me for half an hour? I’d like to pay Mrs Petty a call before the inspector arrives.”

“Will she be ready for visitors so early in the day?”

Eliza puffed out her cheeks. “Probably not, but I’ll ask her to make an exception. At least I shouldn’t be there for too long.”

Mrs Petty was wearing an apron and a scarf around her head when she answered the door to Eliza.

“Good morning, dear. You’re early today.”

“Forgive me for disturbing your cleaning, but I wonder if I might have a word. It is rather urgent.”

“Then you’d better come in.” After peering out into the street, Mrs Petty opened the door to the living room. “Make yourself comfortable. Would you like a cup of tea?”

“No, thank you. It’s only a quick visit.”

“That sounds intriguing.” Mrs Petty sat in her usual chair by the window. “How may I help?”

“I was talking to Mrs Hartley yesterday, and she told me you’d seen a couple of strange men in the village.”

“Ooh, that’s right, yes.” Her eyes lit up. “It was Sunday afternoon, and I’d just finished tidying up after luncheon. I’d sat down with a cup of tea.”

“What time would that be?”

“About half past one, at a guess. They walked right past my window and then did a circuit of the village and out again. It was as if they were looking for someone.”

“Did they find who they were looking for?”

“I wouldn’t like to say, but they stopped outside several houses … as well as the surgery.”

Eliza’s stomach flipped. “Did they go to the door?”

“No, but your young maid walked down the drive and disturbed them. As soon as they saw her, they hurried away.”

“Iris? I must have a word with her.”

“She may not have realised she’d seen anything. They moved off pretty quickly when they saw her.”

“Are you able to give me a description of them?”

“There’s not a lot to say, other than they were probably middle-aged and looked as if they were from the city. You don’t see many men around here in bowler hats on a Sunday.”

“What about their heights or the colour of their hair?”

She shook her head. “Not their hair. Neither removed their hat, and both were clean- shaven. They were roughly the same height as each other, too. Neither tall nor short, from where I was sitting.”

“Have you seen them since?”

“I can’t say I have. Why? Are you looking for them?”

“Possibly.” Eliza sighed. “Mrs Appleton and I found a body by the pond yesterday evening.”

“Oh, gracious.” Mrs Petty’s hands flew to her face. “Do you think it was one of them?”

“I couldn’t say, but if it wasn’t, then he may be the killer.”

Mrs Petty shuddered. “Good grief. I hope not.”

“You’re sure you didn’t see them yesterday afternoon? It’s not often something escapes your attention.”

Mrs Petty tutted. “Usually it doesn’t, but I decided that the weather was nice enough to do a final bit of tidying in the back garden. I went outside at about two o’clock and stayed there until just before four.”

“That’s a shame, although it’s helpful, too. It suggests the murder probably took place while you were in the garden. Would you usually notice if anyone was lurking near the pond if you were in your chair?”

“Oh, yes.”

“I thought so. I’ll mention it to the coroner when he comes to collect the body. It may help…”

Mrs Petty pointed across the green. “Might that be him now?”

“It is. Well spotted. Would you excuse me? I’ll keep you up to date if we find out any more.”

The body was already on the stretcher when Eliza arrived at the storage area at the back of the surgery, and she held a handkerchief to her nose as she stepped inside. An unfamiliar coroner peered at her over his half-moon glasses.

“May we help?”

Archie introduced her. “This is my wife, Mrs Thomson. She found the body.”

“Mrs Thomson. Your husband’s given me all the information I need.”

“That’s good. Although I may have more.” She stood defiantly as the coroner turned back to cover the man’s face. “An estimated time of death.”

Archie cocked his head to one side. “Is this from Mrs Petty?”

“It is, but if the coroner doesn’t want to know…”

He turned around with a sigh. “You have a witness?”

“Not as such, but Mrs Petty’s one of our neighbours. She lives close to the entrance of the village, and if she’s sitting in her window, which she often is, she doesn’t miss a thing.”

Archie nodded. “I can confirm she is very helpful and usually reliable if you ever want to know what’s going on.”

The coroner stared at Eliza. “Did she see the man enter the village?”

“No, but that’s the point. She sat by the window for most of the day and saw nothing. Unfortunately, she was in the garden for a couple of hours in the afternoon and we suspect that was when the man and his killer arrived.”

“It’s rather circumstantial…”

“That’s as maybe but given half the body was in water for long enough to distort the face, I’d suggest it’s a good place to start.”

“And what time was she missing?”

“Between two and four o’clock. I found the body shortly after five.”

Archie stroked his chin. “So, it could have been in the water for up to three hours?”

“At a push, although I’d expect someone else to have come across it if it had been there for that long.”

“It was fairly well hidden … and not everyone’s as curious as you.”

Eliza grinned. “Has the coroner seen where I found it?”

“Not yet. I’m about to take him…”

“There’s no need for that. If I need any more information, I’ll call again.” He checked his pocket watch. “I need to be going. Dr Thomson, would you help me get this into the carriage?” He nodded to the stretcher as he picked up the handles on one end and waited for Archie to lift those on the other. “Good day, Mrs Thomson.”

Eliza opened a window and pulled the door closed behind her as she followed them out. Good day to you, too.

She wandered to the dispensary where several patients were waiting. “Dr Thomson won’t be a minute. Is anyone waiting for a prescription?”

One gentleman stood up and handed her a slip of paper.

“That won’t take a minute.”

She reached for several jars but stopped when Connie strolled to the counter with a pout.

“Here you are. I’ve been looking for you.”

“I’m sorry. You were fast asleep when I looked in on you, so I had a quick breakfast and slipped over to Mrs Petty’s. I wanted to speak to her before Inspector Adams arrives.”

“Did she have anything interesting to say?”

Eliza lowered her voice as several pairs of eyes stared at her. “I’ll tell you over morning coffee. Did you have breakfast?”

“Iris brought a cup of tea and some toast upstairs. She thought I might want it before I dressed for the day.”

“That’s good of her.”

Connie lowered her voice. “Have you seen Frank this morning?”

“No, but then I wouldn’t expect to. Did he say he’d call?”

“I thought he’d want to speak to the coroner.”

Eliza rolled her eyes. “It’s as well he didn’t. It wasn’t the usual fellow, and he was quite rude.”

“He’ll get quite enough of that when the inspector arrives.”

Eliza scooped sixty tablets into a bottle. “Don’t be like that. They cleared the air last time they saw each other.”

“Frank could still do without him interfering just before our marriage.”

Eliza grimaced as she walked around the counter and handed the gentleman his medication. “One tablet each morning and evening, then come back in four weeks’ time so Dr Thomson can check how you’re getting on.”

He took the medication and made his way to the door as Archie called in the next patient. Eliza wandered back to Connie.

“You worry too much about Sergeant Cooper. I’m sure he can look after himself. Now, are you going to wait here while I tidy up, or would you like to ask Iris to prepare the tray? I shouldn’t be much longer.”

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Eliza and Connie were in the morning room when there was a knock on the door, and moments later, Iris appeared with Inspector Adams.

“Inspector.” Eliza stood up. “We’re just finishing coffee. May I offer you a cup?”

He greeted Connie before nodding to Iris. “If you wouldn’t mind. I took the train from London, and it was delayed.”

“Have you only just arrived?”

“I called at the station and Sergeant Cooper suggested I speak to you directly. He said it would save time and I’d be able to look at the body while I’m here. Is Dr Thomson around to show me what’s what?”

“He is, but I’m afraid the victim isn’t. The coroner collected the body about an hour ago.”

“Confounded train. I’d have made it on time had it stuck to the timetable.”

Eliza gestured towards a chair. “Never mind. Why don’t you take a seat, and we’ll tell you what we know so far?”

“I will, thank you.” He took the chair opposite Eliza.

“Dr Thomson’s finishing off in the surgery if you’d like a word with him. We mentioned to the coroner that you may be able to identify the victim, so if you wish to call, he’ll be expecting you.”

“Sergeant Cooper said you found four calling cards in the pocket.”

“We did. The same cards as we found on Mr Hemsworth.”

“But you didn’t recognise the victim?”

“I can’t say I did. We’re hoping you would.”

“You think he might be one of the men I visited?”

“It’s got to be a possibility.”

The inspector paused as Iris returned with a cup and saucer and poured his coffee. “I hope it’s not. It doesn’t bode well for the other two gents if it is.”

“I thought the same, although they may be more inclined to help with our enquiries if it is.”

“Perhaps.” He took a sip of his drink. “Why do you suspect the two deaths are linked?”

“There are the cards, for one thing, but also the fact they were killed with identical knives.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Go on.”

“If I’m not mistaken, it had the same handle as the one used in London. The victim was stabbed in the same place … just beneath the ribs on their right side … and on both occasions it had been twisted to cause maximum damage.”

“Interesting.” He sat back as Eliza studied him.

“Are you any further on with the London enquiry?”

“Not really.” He took out his notebook. “I’ve spoken again to the two witnesses from the shop, Mr Radcliffe and Mr Ashcroft, but they didn’t have much more to add. Between them, it sounds like they only saw the two men they’d previously mentioned. Both wore dark suits, one had dark hair flecked with grey, the other wore a hat. Neither mentioned a man with fair hair.”

“Oh.” Connie’s shoulders slumped. “I must have imagined it.”

“Not necessarily. We’ll go back to the shop and check the salesmen’s recollections. They may have seen someone else.”

Eliza smiled at her friend before turning back to the inspector. “Did Mr Radcliffe confirm the hat in question was a homburg?”

“I didn’t press him on it. Why?”

“I spoke to Mrs Petty earlier today, and she said there were two men in the village on Sunday afternoon wearing dark suits and bowler hats. I’m wondering if they’re the same men.”

“It’s possible. Men do have more than one hat, especially if they live or work in Mayfair. Did you find a bowler near the crime scene?”

“No. Not that I looked, given the circumstances. Although now I think of it, I didn’t see any headwear.”

“I’ll get Constable Jenkins to do a more thorough search of the area.”

“That would help. I wonder if the victim was one of the men Mrs Petty reported or if he matches the description of anyone in Harrods … or he’s one of our men on the calling cards.”

“There may be an overlap.”

Eliza’s forehead creased. “What do you mean?”

“It may be that the men who came to the village are the same men who were in the shop…”

“It’s possible, but Mrs Petty said the men she saw were middle-aged and of average height. The men in Harrods were also middle-aged, but one was taller than average.”

“Perhaps it’s two of the men on the calling cards, then.”

“Even though they all had alibis for the time of the first murder?”

“I was never happy with Mr Bellingham’s alibi, if you remember, and I’ve not been able to question him again.”

“Why not?”

“He wasn’t in the office when I went back to the accountants, so I tried the address you’d found. You were right that he lived in a rather run-down property, and it appears he only has one room in it. He wasn’t at home when I called.”

“So, he’s disappeared?”

“Or he was with one of his clients. I’ve asked my sergeant to call again this evening in the hope he can find him. He should have no excuse after hours … unless he spends his time … and money … in the Soho nightclubs.”

Eliza shuddered. “Surely not when he clearly has friends in high places. Did you check how grand Mr Waverley’s property is?”

“We did, and the answer is very.” The inspector sighed. “There’s something about all this that doesn’t add up.”

“I spoke to Lady Alice about the Waverleys, and she said she doesn’t know the daughter terribly well and she’s never questioned why they attended the same society events.”

“We’ll need to follow up on that as well, then. I’ll speak to Mr Bellingham first and see what he has to say for himself.”

Eliza nodded. “Is that it?”

“I think so.” He flicked through his notes. “Oh, one more thing, we had a letter from one of Mr Hemsworth’s sons. The one in Scotland. He was shocked to hear of his father’s death and said he’d come to London immediately. We only got it yesterday, so I expect he’ll arrive today or tomorrow.”

“Had he been in Scotland all the time?”

“That’s the impression he gave.”

“I wonder why you’ve not heard from the younger one. Not a guilty conscience, I hope.”

Inspector Adams shook his head. “He’s a young man at university. I don’t expect he sits down to write letters very often.”

“It’s not any old letter he’s replying to when the police write to inform you your father’s been murdered.”

“Still, he may not have opened it straight away. I’ll give him a few more days before I send someone to Cambridge. At the moment, I’m more interested in Mr Hemsworth’s old cases. That’s what I was working through when I got your telegram.”

“Have you come across anything of interest?”

“Not yet. It looks like Sir Reginald was right about him being a successful barrister.”

She studied him. “Do you think it could have anything to do with Lord Lowton?”

“It’s too early to say, and I’m not at a point where I need to go down that line of enquiry.” He pushed himself up from his seat. “I should get on. Would you escort me to Dr Thomson’s room? I need to know where to find the coroner.”

Iris was in the morning room tidying the coffee cups away when Eliza returned from the surgery.

“Ah, Iris. I’m glad you’re here. May I have a word?”

“W-what is it?” She straightened up, clenching her hands in front of her.

“There’s no need to be worried. I just wanted to ask you about a couple of men who were in the village on Sunday.”

“Men!” Her eyes widened.

“Mrs Petty mentioned that she’d seen two of them, and that they were outside the surgery when you left for your half day. Do you remember them?”

“Two men? Wearing bowler hats?”

“Yes, that’s them. Did you notice anything about them? How tall they were, for example, or the colour of their hair around the edge of their hats?”

“Not really. I-I tried not to look at them.”

“Quite right, too, but did you sense anything about them?”

She pursed her lips. “They were a lot taller than me, although that won’t be any surprise. I doubt I reached their shoulders. That’s why I hurried away. It was rather unnerving…”

“I’m sure it was. Were they both of a similar height?”

“One may have been slightly taller, but not by much.”

“And their hair?”

“I didn’t really notice, but I’d say the one closer to me was almost grey.”

“Which might be why it wasn’t so noticeable?”

Iris nodded. “I got away as quickly as I could, to be honest. There was something about them I didn’t like.”

“Could you put your finger on what it was?”

Iris bit her lip. “Not really … except, it was strange … they were staring at the front door when I went out. I nearly turned round and came straight back, but thankfully they moved away.”

“All right, thank you. I won’t make you relive it any longer.”

Connie stood up and stared out of the window as Iris left them. “They were after us, weren’t they?”

“We don’t know that.”

“Why else would they be here?”

Eliza shrugged. “Perhaps they needed a doctor.”

“Then why not come in?”

Eliza joined her by the window. “It was Sunday, and the opening hours are clearly shown on the door. Please don’t let it worry you. If they’re any threat, Inspector Adams will find them.”

“I hope so.”

Eliza, Connie and Archie were still at the table finishing luncheon when the door opened and Iris once again ushered in Inspector Adams.

“That was quick.” Eliza smiled as she gestured to the seat opposite Connie. “Can Iris get you anything?”

“A cup of tea would be nice.”

“And a slice of apple pie with custard?”

He grinned. “You’ve twisted my arm. Thank you.”

Once Iris closed the door, Archie turned to him. “How did you get on? Did you recognise the victim?”

“I did, as it happens.” He looked at Eliza. “Mr Bellingham.”

“The accountant! No!”

“I’m afraid so. Although it’s a stroke of good fortune that I recognised him.”

“But what about Mr Waverley and Sir Reginald? This means they must be at risk themselves.”

“Either that or they’re the men we’re looking for.”

“They can’t be. We know they both had alibis.”

“They did, but we’ll need to check them more thoroughly. We also need to find out where they were yesterday.”

“Will you go back to London this afternoon?”

“It will probably be in the morning. I’ve things to do here first. Not that I can leave it too long. If they are innocent, they could be the next on the list. I need to call at Mr Bellingham’s office, too, to inform them of his death and to find out if he had a next of kin.”

“I hope there’s no immediate family if he lived in such squalor.”

“We can’t be certain. There are whole families who live in worse conditions. On the positive side, we should be able to check his accounts, now he isn’t here to stop us. We need to find out who he was meeting when the first murder took place, too.”

“Do you think he was involved?”

“I’ve no idea, but if he was, someone might have wanted to silence him.”

“Of course.” She shuddered. “It all feels a lot more sinister than usual.” She paused as Iris placed the inspector’s dessert and cup and saucer on the table. “I’ll pour, thank you.”

“Yes, madam.”

Eliza bit her lip as she waited for Iris to close the door behind her. “Do you think Mrs Appleton and I should come with you?”

He stopped before his first spoonful of apple pie reached his lips. “Absolutely not.”

“We could help. We both saw the men in Harrods. If the killer was either Mr Waverley or Sir Reginald, we’d know.”

The inspector turned to Archie. “What do you say?”

He shrugged. “I’m not overly happy with it, but she has a point.”

Eliza turned to him. “We’d be with the inspector and presumably his sergeant, so we should be quite safe.”

Inspector Adams nodded. “The sergeant could come with us, although we’d need to devise a ruse for why the interview needs four of us there.”

“No.”

The conversation stopped as Connie spoke.

“I can’t go…”

“You’ll be perfectly safe.”

Connie shook her head. “Frank won’t let me. He’s already told me I’m not to make any more trips to London without him.”

“But we’d travel with the inspector… And stay with Father again.”

Inspector Adams put down his spoon. “If Mrs Appleton isn’t comfortable, we shouldn’t force her.”

“But she always comes with me…” Eliza stared at Connie, tears in her eyes.

“I’m sorry. I must do what Frank says now.”

Eliza sighed. “Very well. I’ll nip across to Mrs Hartley’s this afternoon to tell her what’s going on. I’ll ask if she’ll join you for afternoon tea while I’m away. I don’t want you here on your own…”

“There’s really no need.”

“Nonsense. I know you. You’ll sit here fretting if you have no company. Besides, I’m sure she’ll be delighted.”

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

The following morning, Mr Bell escorted Eliza to the front door of New Scotland Yard, where Inspector Adams was waiting for them.

“Good morning. I hope you didn’t have too early a start.”

Eliza glanced at a nearby clock, which still only showed nine o’clock. “I won’t mind if the trip is worthwhile. Who do you plan on visiting first?”

“I’ll start with Mr Bellingham’s office. I need to tell them he won’t be coming into work.”

“That makes sense. Do you mind if Father travels with us? He’ll go to a local coffee shop while we’re with the gentlemen, but it means he’ll be on hand should we need him.”

The inspector nodded. “There’s no reason why not. In fact, if he joins us, there’s no need for you to come to the accountants.”

“Not come with you!”

“You don’t need to identify him…”

“I could still help.”

Inspector Adams looked at Mr Bell and shook his head. “Very well, as long as you let me do the talking.”

“Of course.”

“Are we ready, then?”

The journey to Mayfair took a quarter of an hour, and they left the carriage outside a coffee shop opposite Harrods. Mr Bell stared up at the sign across the front.

“This will do nicely. Feel free to join me if you get the chance.”

Eliza eyed the building with suspicion. “Will they let me in?”

“They will if you stay with the inspector. They’re not as strict as they once were.”

“If you say so.” She looked at Inspector Adams. “Is it far to walk to the accountant’s office?”

“Not at all, so I suggest we take our leave of Mr Bell.”

Once they’d said their farewells, the inspector gestured towards his right-hand side and Eliza fell into step beside him. The roads were busier than she expected, and they dodged several groups of men before they turned into a nearby side street.

She glanced at the inspector’s stern face. “How will you introduce me?”

“We might as well tell the truth, that you’re a witness.”

“What do I say if they ask any questions?”

“I hope to give them enough information up front, so they don’t need to. If they do, plead ignorance.”

“And ruin my reputation!” Eliza smirked. “Will we go straight to the bank once we’ve been here?”

“It depends where it is…” Inspector Adams paused as they reached the office they were looking for. “Remember, I’ll do the talking.”

A clerk greeted them as they went inside, and he jumped to his feet when Inspector Adams showed him his card. “The manager’s in his office. If you’ll give me a moment, I’ll see if he’s free.”

“Even if he isn’t, tell him I need to speak with him urgently.”

“Yes, sir.”

Eliza grinned. “That will get tongues wagging.”

“It wasn’t meant to.”

Eliza admired the pictures on the wall as they waited, but the inspector tapped his fingers on the desk.

“How long does it take to relay a message?”

Eliza hadn’t had time to answer when the man returned.

“The manager will see you now. If you’ll follow me…” He led them through a large pair of dark oak doors and up a grand staircase to a corridor lined with similarly solid doors. “It’s just down here.” The clerk pushed open a pair of double doors at the end of the corridor and announced Inspector Adams and a companion.

“Inspector Adams.” The man stood up and offered him a hand. “Please, take a seat. How may I help?”

Before he sat down, the inspector held out a chair for Eliza. “First, may I introduce Mrs Thomson? She’s an acquaintance of mine and relevant to my visit today.”

The manager peered at her and nodded as Inspector Adams sat down. “I see.”

“The thing is, I’m here about Mr Bellingham. One of your accountants.”

“Bellingham?” He rolled his eyes. “Is this anything to do with the fact he didn’t turn up for work yesterday?”

“I’m afraid so. Mr Bellingham was found dead on Monday afternoon. I identified the body myself, yesterday.”

“Dead!” The colour drained from the man’s face as he slumped back in his chair. “How?”

“He was murdered.”

The manager’s eyes widened. “But who would do such a thing?”

“We’re hoping you might help with that. Do you know of anyone who may have wished him dead?”

“No … of course not. He was something of a rogue, but he was a likeable chap. Very popular with his clients.”

“Did he have many?”

“I think so. Not that I know the number off the top of my head. Do you suspect one of them was the killer?”

“We’re keeping our options open for the time being. Would it be possible to have a list of his clients? It may help with our enquiries.”

“Yes, of course. I’ll have one drawn up for you.”

“Splendid. In the meantime, are you aware of anyone else who may have had any disagreements with Mr Bellingham?”

“I don’t think … although … there was that barrister.”

The inspector’s eyebrows rose. “Do you have a name?”

“Yes, what was it? Hemsworth?”

“Mr Bellingham had a disagreement with Mr Hemsworth?”

“It’s only a presumption, but he came to see me, a month or so ago, demanding I end Bellingham’s employment.”

“But you didn’t?”

“I had no reason to and I told him so. If you ask me, it was something to do with a woman.”

Eliza cocked her head to one side. “What makes you say that?”

The man appeared taken aback by her question. “Isn’t it always?”

Inspector Adams shot her a glance, forcing her to choke back her response. “That’s very helpful, thank you. Did you have any other callers regarding Mr Bellingham?”

“Not anyone who’d disagreed with him. The last chap I saw was his bank manager.”

“Mr Waverley?”

“Yes. It was all perfectly routine. He only wanted to confirm Mr Bellingham’s salary.” His eyes flicked between the inspector and Eliza. “Do you think Hemsworth may be your murderer?”

The inspector paused. “Unfortunately not. Mr Hemsworth was himself murdered the week before.”

The manager gasped. “Good grief. What’s the world coming to?”

“Quite.” The inspector stood up but paused by the desk. “Before I go, do you know if Sir Reginald Fitzroy was a client?”

“I couldn’t say for sure, but I don’t think so. Is he a suspect?”

“Just a line of enquiry at the moment.” He held the chair for Eliza to join him. “Thank you for now. We’ll call back for the list at around two, if that’s all right.”

Eliza waited until they were outside then raised an eyebrow. “What do you make of that?”

He remained silent for several seconds. “It sounds like there was a conflict between Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham, but even if the latter killed the former, it doesn’t explain who killed Mr Bellingham.”

“Maybe that’s where the other two come in. Mr Bellingham was clearly an outsider, so when Mr Hemsworth was found dead, the others turned on him.”

“It’s an idea, although I can’t work out why they would be at loggerheads. Surely, Mr Hemsworth only needed to cut him out of his social circle if they’d had a disagreement.”

“Unless money was involved.”

“It usually is.” The inspector continued to stare straight ahead. “It’s fortunate that Mr Waverley was his bank manager as well as a name on the calling cards. We may get something out of him.”

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

The reception area of the bank was busy when they arrived, but Inspector Adams pushed his way to the front of one of the queues and showed his card to the teller. A moment later, the man left his post and disappeared through a pair of partially glazed doors behind him. The inspector beckoned Eliza to the end of the counter where, a minute later, a flustered gentleman shuffled to greet them.

“Inspector. Another visit? How may I help?”

“Mr Waverley. Is there anywhere we can talk in private?”

“Oh, yes, of course. This way.” He led them into the back room where at least twenty clerks hunched over their desks, their fountain pens scratching on the paper of their ledgers. He didn’t stop until he reached a door at the far end of the room with his name emblazoned on the front. “We can talk in here.”

Once again, the inspector introduced Eliza before he took a seat. He offered no preamble to their meeting. “Mr Waverley, I’m afraid I’m the bearer of bad news.”

“Oh.” The manager took out a handkerchief and dabbed at his forehead. “Is it to do with Mr Hemsworth?”

“Not as such. You told me last time I was here that you were acquainted with Mr Bellingham, the accountant.”

“Yes, that’s right. He has an account with us and happens to be a member of our club.”

“I’m sorry to tell you he was found dead on Monday afternoon. Murdered.”

Mr Waverley’s mouth fell open as the news sank in. “Dead. Oh my goodness. How…?”

“We’re not at liberty to say. Can you tell me when you last saw him?”

Mr Waverley wiped his neck as well as his brow. “I … erm … I’m really not sure. Saturday, perhaps. Yes, I wasn’t working and spent the afternoon at the club.”

“And did you sit with Mr Bellingham?”

“He sat with me, if we’re being precise, but if you mean, did we converse, then yes.”

“About what?”

“This and that … the tragic death of Mr Hemsworth, for one. It was the first time I’d seen him since we heard the news.”

Inspector Adams fixed him with his gaze. “Did he say anything about Mr Hemsworth’s death or have any ideas about who might do such a thing?”

“No. Quite the contrary. He was as shocked as anyone and couldn’t understand why anyone would want him dead.”

The inspector stood up and paced to the window before turning back to face Mr Waverley. “Did you know that Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham had had a falling-out?”

“I can’t say I did. They were always perfectly civil when I saw them together.”

“Did they say anything behind each other’s back?”

“Goodness, no. That would be most unbecoming.”

“So, as far as you’re concerned, they were on good terms when Mr Hemsworth died.”

“Certainly.”

“What about you? Did you ever disagree with him?”

“Not at all. He was always perfectly civil.”

“And yet you called at his place of work to check his wage. Why would you do that?”

“It’s routine practice for customers wanting to borrow money.” Mr Waverley continued when the inspector raised an eyebrow. “He was hoping to buy some property.”

“Ah. I did wonder. Could you tell us where you were on Monday afternoon?”

“Me?” His voice squeaked. “I was here. From noon until about five o’clock.”

“And you have people who can confirm that?”

“Yes. My chief clerk was with me for most of the afternoon. We were going through some accounts. You can ask him.”

“We will.” The inspector made a note. “Did any of these accounts belong to Mr Bellingham, by any chance?”

Eliza fancied that some colour flushed across Mr Waverley’s cheeks.

“Not at all. Why would they?”

“Why would you go through anyone else’s accounts?”

Mr Waverley regained his confidence. “I’m sure you’ll appreciate, Inspector, there are certain gentlemen who like to spend more money than they earn. We were looking at the accounts of those who do.”

“Would that normally be a job for the manager?”

“Only when the debt gets out of hand.”

“But that didn’t apply to Mr Bellingham?”

“Oh gracious, no. He was well in the black…” Mr Waverley’s smile dropped as the inspector returned to the desk.

“I’m going to need to take the accounts as part of our enquiry.”

“B-but … our client information is confidential…”

“Your client has been murdered and his finances may help us find his killer.”

“Yes, of course.” Mr Waverley hesitated as he stood up and went to the door. “I’ll ask my clerk to get the details for you.”

Inspector Adams checked the door was closed tightly before he retook his seat. “Do you recognise him?”

“No. I can say with some certainty that he wasn’t near the scene on the day of the murder. He’s rather overweight and I’m sure we’d have noticed.”

“You’re right. He also huffs and puffs rather a lot. I doubt he’s capable of hurrying down four flights of stairs.”

Eliza chuckled. “I don’t imagine he could. It doesn’t mean he wasn’t involved, though and he may know more about it than he’s telling us.”

The inspector glanced at the door. “For now, we’ll just take the accounts. We’ll call again if we find anything of interest.”

“There is one thing I’d like to ask him before we go.”

“What’s that?”

“I want to find out where he got his money from.”

Inspector Adams nearly choked. “You can’t ask him that.”

She rolled her eyes. “Give me some credit. I’ll broach the subject carefully, if you don’t mind.”

“Very well, but if he appears upset at any point…”

“I know, I’ll leave it. Oh, he’s here.”

Inspector Adams stood up as Mr Waverley returned and handed him a leatherbound folder. “Everything should be in there. Please be careful with it. We’ll need it back.”

“All in good time. We’re hoping it will throw some light on the investigation.”

“I don’t know how…”

“That’s for us to work out. Now, we must be going. Are you ready, Mrs Thomson?”

Eliza stood up. “I am, although I wonder if Mr Waverley would answer a question that’s been puzzling me.”

Mr Waverley’s forehead creased as he stared at her. “How may I help?”

“It’s nothing really, but my son’s a doctor at the Middlesex Hospital and when I mentioned to him that Mr Bellingham had been found dead, he said the name sounded familiar, although he couldn’t think why. He wondered if it was because he’d been a patient. Did Mr Bellingham say anything to you about visiting the hospital?”

“N-no, I don’t think so. Why would he need to do that?”

Eliza shrugged. “There may be any number of reasons, but as it stands, we may never find out. It’s possible, of course, that my son’s mistaken. I did suggest he may have heard the name through his fiancée’s family. The Lowtons. Do you know them?”

“As in Lord Lowton?”

“That’s right. My son’s betrothed to Lady Alice. A lovely girl.”

“As a matter of fact, I have had the pleasure of meeting them. My daughter attended the same finishing school as Lady Alice, not that they were classmates, you understand. My daughter’s the younger of the two, so Lady Alice may not have even noticed her, but it means I’ve seen the Lowtons at several debutante balls.”

Eliza clapped her hands together. “What a small world. I’ll have to tell her I’ve spoken to you. Was your daughter presented to His Majesty in the same season?”

Mr Waverley’s eye twitched. “No…”

“Oh.” Eliza kept her eyes fixed on his until he continued.

“My daughter wasn’t officially introduced; she just had connections from school and received invitations to the balls.”

“Ah, I see. I imagine you were relieved given how much money it costs for these girls to attend the whole season…” She put a hand to her lips as Mr Waverley’s cheeks reddened. “Forgive me, I shouldn’t be so indiscreet. I’m sure that’s no business of mine.”

Much to Eliza’s relief, he smiled at her. “It wasn’t anything I had to worry about. We had no one to present her to the King, and so she never expected much. Her mother, on the other hand…”

Eliza returned his smile. “Say no more. We ladies always want to do what’s best for our children. I hope she wasn’t too disappointed.”

“Not once our daughter caught the eye of young Mr Fitzroy.”

Eliza’s eyes flicked to the inspector before she looked at Mr Waverley. “The son of Sir Reginald?”

“The only son, no less, which means that in time, she’ll be Lady Fitzroy.”

Eliza beamed at him. “How splendid. In that case, I may see you again if we get invited to any of the society balls. I’ll look forward to it.”

Mr Waverley grinned at her, but the inspector’s face was stern as he wandered to the door.

“Before we go, a word of warning. Please be careful. Two of the men on the calling cards are no longer with us. I don’t want to find out that you’re next.”

Mr Waverley’s principal clerk was at his desk when they stepped out of the office, and Eliza waited a few feet away as the inspector confirmed Mr Waverley’s whereabouts at the times of the murders.

It’s like a workshop in here. Do they ever look up from those ledgers? She studied the various heads and hair colours as she ran her eyes over the office, but stopped when she caught the eye of a young man staring over at her. Who’s that…? She looked around for Inspector Adams. When he was still in conversation, she looked back across the room. Where’s he gone? Her eyes danced from one head to another. He’s disappeared.

Inspector Adams made her flinch as he joined her. “Is everything all right?”

“I’m not sure. I thought I saw a man I recognised with fair hair, but he’s disappeared.” She shook her head. “I must have imagined it.”

“The man Mrs Appleton saw?”

“Possibly. He made eye contact for a second, but when I looked away to see where you were, he disappeared.”

The inspector beckoned over the clerk. “The men working here. Do you have a list of their names?”

“I could get one for you. It will take about half an hour.”

“Thank you. We’ll call again later.”

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Mr Bell was standing with several men in the middle of the coffee shop when Eliza and Inspector Adams walked in. Once he noticed them, he excused himself and ushered them to a nearby table.

“That was good timing. The debate was getting rather heated.” He looked at the inspector. “The state of the government.”

The inspector groaned. “There’ll be an election soon, you mark my words.”

“I don’t doubt it.” Mr Bell gestured for three coffees before helping Eliza into the corner chair. He nodded at the book under the inspector’s arm. “What have you got there?”

“Details of Mr Bellingham’s bank account. I was hoping to leave it with you for safekeeping while we visit Sir Reginald.”

“I’m sure I can manage that. How are you getting on?”

“We’ve had a couple of interesting conversations, but if you don’t mind, I’d rather not talk about them in here.”

“I quite understand. Have the accounts given up any secrets yet?”

“No, we’ve literally just come from the bank.” He smiled at a waitress as she delivered their coffee.

“Gentlemen.” She gave Eliza a withering look.

“Thank you.” Mr Bell patted Eliza’s hand once they were alone. “I’m sorry about that, my dear. Sometimes these women feel threatened by a lady.”

“Don’t worry, I’m used to it. May I?” She took the accounts from her father. “Perhaps we should check whether there are any irregularities in here before we speak to Sir Reginald.”

Inspector Adams hesitated. “Very well, but make sure no one sees, though.”

Eliza glanced over both shoulders. “I am in the corner.” She opened the book on the first page. “It goes back to 1895. It may take a while.”

Inspector Adams shifted his chair so he could see the ledger. “Go to the last page and work backwards. Did he have much money?”

Eliza’s eyes widened. “He certainly wasn’t short. One thousand and thirty-four pounds, ten shillings and sixpence.”

The inspector let out a long whistle. “What on earth was he doing in a house in Soho, then?”

“And why did he only have three shillings and sixpence in his wallet when we found the body?”

“Maybe he’d spent what he had on the rail fare.” He shrugged. “Or maybe the murderer took what money he carried.”

“It’s a thought. Not that we’ll be able to prove it.”

“No.” The inspector stroked his moustache. “Had he saved regularly, or was there a sudden influx of money?”

Eliza flicked to the beginning of the book. “He started with fifty pounds and then…” she turned several pages “…and then it built up gradually. The payments ‘in’ grew steadily larger, but nothing that looks untoward. Not at first sight, at any rate.”

“When was the last payment and withdrawal?”

Eliza tapped her finger on the last entry. “Here. He made a withdrawal of one pound on the Friday before we found the body on Monday. He made a number of withdrawals in the last two weeks, although they all look modest.”

“What about payments in?”

Eliza turned back a page. “The most recent was in mid-August when he paid in twenty pounds. Then another a couple of days before that for fifteen pounds, but then nothing until early August.”

“So, a couple of big payments in each month and a lot of small withdrawals. Presumably, one of the payments was from his employer, but I doubt they paid his salary in two instalments.”

“Unless the other was a bonus.”

“Possibly.” The inspector took a sip of his coffee. “What about previous payments? Is there a pattern?”

Eliza scanned the rest of the page. “Not really. There are payments of between ten and fifty pounds, going back to the start of the year, but there doesn’t seem to be any regularity.”

“Fifty pounds! When was that?”

“The end of June.”

The inspector stared at the row above her finger. “And all the withdrawals are for one and two pounds. How strange.”

“Oh, no, look at this. He withdrew twenty pounds two weeks earlier, and again in April. Eliza picked up her coffee and wrapped her hands around it. “Why would he do that?”

“Who knows? Gambling debts, perhaps.”

Eliza’s eyes widened. “Of twenty pounds?”

“It would explain why he lived in such a run-down property.”

“It’s possible.” Eliza nodded. “We’ll have to ask his employer when he got paid.”

“He may have been given the money regularly but not been very prompt at paying it into the bank.”

“We could do with knowing how much he earned, too, so we can work out how much he kept in his wallet.”

“That’s a good point.” The inspector drained his cup. “Are you nearly finished here? We may as well go so we’re back here in time for luncheon. We’ll find out more about Mr Bellingham when we go back to the accountants this afternoon.”

A housekeeper opened the front door of Sir Reginald’s five-storey mansion after Inspector Adams had given the door knocker a good bang. She stared at the two of them.

“May I help?”

He produced his card. “I’d like a word with Sir Reginald. It’s rather urgent.”

She glanced at the clock on the wall beside her. “He won’t be pleased. He’s due at his club in twenty minutes and he doesn’t like being late.”

“Then the sooner you tell him we’re here, the sooner he can leave. I’m sure he’d prefer to speak to me here than have me call at his club.”

The housekeeper looked as if she were sucking a lemon. “Wait there. I’ll see if he’s free.”

Eliza creased her cheek as the door shut in their faces. “It’s to be hoped Sir Reginald’s more amenable than she is.”

“He was the last time I was here.”

They hadn’t waited long when the housekeeper returned. “He says he has five minutes … for you, Inspector.” She glared at Eliza, but Inspector Adams took her arm.

“Mrs Thomson is with me and is relevant to my call. Would you lead the way?”

The woman sniffed the air. “If you insist.” Her heels clipped on the hall floor as they walked to the stairs and proceeded up to a study on the first floor. “Inspector Adams and a companion for you, sir.”

“Really?” Sir Reginald peered at Eliza over his glasses. “You’d better sit down. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Eliza gave a gracious smile. “Inspector Adams has some news for you.”

“Inspector?” His head jerked upwards. “Ah, yes. Is this another visit about old Hemsworth? I told you all I know.”

“Not exactly. I’d like to talk to you about Mr Bellingham.”

“Bellingham, eh? What’s he been up to? Not murdering Hemsworth, I hope.”

“We can’t say one way or the other, sir, and unfortunately, we can’t ask him.”

“Lost him, have you?”

“Sadly not. I’m here to tell you that he’s been found murdered.”

Sir Reginald whipped off his glasses as he stood up. “You’re sure?”

“I identified him myself.”

“Well, I never. That’s a turn-up for the books. Was he felled in Harrods, too?”

“No, sir. He was in Moreton-on-Thames, a village to the southwest of here. Not far from Mrs Thomson’s front door.”

“You found him, did you?”

“Yes, sir. Fortunately, my husband’s a doctor, so I was able to call on him to make a pronouncement on his condition.”

Sir Reginald shook his head. “What the devil was he doing in Moreton-on-Thames?”

“We were hoping you might help us with that.” Inspector Adams rose on the balls of his feet before settling back again. “Are you familiar with the village?”

“Not as such, although I am acquainted with Lord Harrington-Smyth from Over Moreton. Do you know him?”

“We do, but perhaps more pertinently, do you know if His Lordship and Mr Bellingham had any sort of relationship?”

He puffed out his cheeks. “I’d be surprised if they did. Rupert worked with clients from Central London, and I never knew him travel further than he needed to.”

Eliza bit her lip. “Even if he was visiting the Harrington-Smyths, it wouldn’t explain why Mr Bellingham was in our village rather than Over Moreton. Unless he was lost.”

“That’s unlikely if he arrived by carriage from the railway station.” He studied her. “Who else might he have wanted to visit in Moreton? Is there anyone with money?”

“Not that I’m aware … other than Mrs Hartley.” Eliza’s eyes widened. “Surely he wouldn’t have come to see her.”

The inspector turned to Sir Reginald. “Is the name Hartley familiar to you? Did you ever hear Mr Bellingham mention a client by that name?”

“I never heard him talk about any clients unless they had a title and he wanted to show off.”

Eliza’s stomach churned. “Someone like Lord Lowton?”

“Lowton? Gracious, no. He uses a rival firm. It always used to annoy Bellingham.”

“You’re sure? Might he have changed?”

“I doubt it. Not with all the business he’s involved in. It would be far too complicated.”

“I see.”

Inspector Adams wrote something in his notebook before he looked up. “Putting the location of the body to one side, can you think of anyone who may have wanted him dead?”

“Can’t say I do.”

“What about any associates of Mr Hemsworth? Might they suspect Mr Bellingham had something to do with his death and gone after him for revenge?”

“They could, I suppose, but why would they think he was involved?”

“It was just a thought.” Inspector Adams sighed. “Can you tell me where you were on Monday?”

“Me? I didn’t kill him, if that’s what you mean.”

“It’s just for the record, sir. If you wouldn’t mind.”

“Let me think. I was here all morning and went to my club around three o’clock for afternoon tea. My housekeeper can confirm that for you.”

“I’m sure she can. We’ll ask her on the way out.” He gestured to Eliza. “We’d better not outstay our welcome.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it, but before we go, might I ask a question?”

The inspector nodded. “Very well.”

Eliza stood up, but she hesitated as she looked at Sir Reginald. “You may think this is a silly question, but was Mr Bellingham in the habit of wearing a bowler hat?”

“A bowler? Well, he had one, naturally, but I rarely saw him in it. Unless he was going into the City…”

“And did he do that very often?”

“I couldn’t say. I only ever saw him at the club.”

“Is that where you met?”

“It was. Several years ago now.”

“And he was your accountant?”

“Gracious, no. Never mix business with pleasure, that’s my motto.”

“Could you tell us why he had your calling card in his top pocket, then?”

“Did he?” Sir Reginald stared at the inspector, his forehead creased. “Is that why you’re here? I thought it was because I was associated with Hemsworth.”

“It was, in part, but we found the same four calling cards on Mr Bellingham as we found in Mr Hemsworth’s pocket.”

“How strange. I don’t remember giving it to him. I had no need of a new accountant.”

Eliza raised an eyebrow. “Did you give Mr Hemsworth a card?”

“Now you ask, no, I didn’t. I didn’t need a barrister either.”

Eliza shifted from one foot to the other. “Forgive me if this is impertinent, but who do you give your cards to?”

“I don’t, if I’m honest. Not any more. All the people I care to meet go to the club, and they know they’ll find me there should they have a need to speak to me. I suppose there may be some cards lying around from when I first retired, but that was several years ago.”

“And do you carry the cards of the men who’ve died?”

He opened his wallet and took out three of his own. “No, this is it. They’ve been there for a while, too.”

“May I ask about your top pocket? Do you have any in there?”

“Why the devil would I do that?” His fingers dislodged his pocket square as he felt inside. “Nothing except this, which I’ll now have to reshape.”

“I’m sorry, but the cards we found on the other gentlemen were in their top pockets. I just wanted to check.”

“That I’m not next on the list, you mean?”

“Not exactly, but…” Eliza’s cheeks burned. “Do you have a card for Mr Waverley?”

“Waverley? Why would I need his card when I don’t use his bank?”

“I believe your son is betrothed to his daughter.”

“Ah, that, yes. I couldn’t talk him out if it, but she’s a nice enough girl. If I ever need to speak to her father, I’ll send my son to fetch him.”

“I see. Doesn’t your son live with you?

“He has rooms locally. I see him most weeks.”

The inspector scratched his head. “I’m not sure what to make of all this, but if I may offer you a word of advice, please be careful. Your card was in the pockets of both men who’ve been murdered. I hope it’s not a warning.”

He chuckled. “I very much doubt it, but thank you for your consideration. Now, if you’ll excuse me. I really must be going.”

CHAPTER TWENTY

The dining room at Harrods was filling up as a waiter showed Eliza, Inspector Adams and Mr Bell to a table near the window. Eliza sat beside her father, with the inspector opposite.

“It’s strange to be back, even though we didn’t walk through the children’s section.”

Mr Bell patted her hand. “It had to be done. We can’t have you worried about coming here.”

“I know, but it’s not the same without Connie. I hope she’s all right at home.”

“She’ll be fine. Sergeant Cooper’s there.”

Inspector Adams lifted his head from the menu. “He should be working. I asked him and Constable Jenkins to speak to all the villagers before I get back.”

Eliza smiled. “Then I’m sure they will. I asked Iris and Mrs Hartley to keep an eye on Connie as well.”

“I’m glad to hear it…” The inspector paused as the waitress came to the table. They each ordered a dinner of liver and mashed potato, and once they were alone again, the inspector continued. “You’re sure Sir Reginald wasn’t here last week?”

“Quite sure. He was older than I expected, for one thing.”

“I doubt he’s the sort to go racing through a shop, either.” Inspector Adams took out his notepad. “We also spoke to his housekeeper about the events of Monday. She confirmed he was at home all morning and only left for his club just before three o’clock.”

“Did you check he arrived?”

“Not yet, but I doubt he could get to Moreton before four o’clock if he was so late leaving.”

Mr Bell stared into the corner of the room, his lips moving silently. “Given he’s in Mayfair, it may be possible, but it would be tight.”

Eliza shook her head. “I can’t see him doing anything like that. His description doesn’t match the men in the bowler hats either. He’s rather slim.”

Inspector Adams nodded. “I’d agree with that. My worry is he’s more likely to be a victim than the perpetrator.”

“Really? Because of the calling cards?

“Exactly.”

Mr Bell’s brow furrowed. “Are you suggesting the killer had access to each man’s cards?”

“It would appear so, although Sir Reginald didn’t know where they’d got his from. He didn’t have the other men’s cards on him either.” She looked at the inspector. “We should ask Mr Waverley if he has a set of cards.”

“That’s an idea. We’ll do that when we go for the names.”

“You’re going back?”

“And to the accountants.”

“You’ll be busy.” Mr Bell sat back as the waitress arrived with their luncheon. “That looks nice. Thank you.”

They ate in silence until Mr Bell laid his knife and fork on his empty plate. “Don’t forget I need to escort you back to Moreton this evening.”

“I won’t. We needn’t stay here any longer than necessary.”

Once they’d finished dessert, Mr Bell led the way out of the dining room and into the children’s section of the shop.

“It will do you no harm to walk out this way. Lay the ghosts to rest, so to speak.”

“If you say so.” She followed him across the floor towards the dress Connie had admired. “We stopped here, seconds before Connie was knocked over.”

“Don’t let it upset you. She’s safe now.”

“You’re right.” She looked up as a man crossed her path. “Oh, Mr Henson!”

The chief salesman did a double take before he smiled at her. “Mrs Thomson. You were here on the day we had our unfortunate incident.”

“I was. You may remember my father, too, and this is Inspector Adams. He’s investigating the case.”

“Inspector!” There was a squeak in his voice as he extended a hand. “Is there any news?”

“Unfortunately not. I presume you gave my sergeant a statement.”

“I did, yes.”

“And were you the only salesman on the floor at the time?”

“No, my colleague, Mr Paul, was here, but he’s taking a break at the moment.”

“I see. Were there many people around at the time of the incident?”

“I remember it was quiet, but as I told your sergeant, I was helping a couple of ladies to the dining room, so I couldn’t say with certainty who was in the area.”

“Might your colleague have seen anyone?”

“I’m afraid not … he’d gone to the storeroom while we were quiet.”

Inspector Adams’ eyes narrowed. “So, there were no members of staff around when Mr Hemsworth was attacked?”

“I was only gone for a minute, perhaps less, but unfortunately, it was long enough to miss what happened.”

“Very well. I’ll make sure I read your statements again when I get the chance. Good day to you.”

As Inspector Adams headed for the door, Mr Henson caught Eliza’s eye.

“May I ask after your companion?”

“You may.” Eliza smiled. “Thankfully, she’s well on the mend, albeit a little shaken. You seem to have put the room back together again, too.”

“Our cleaners are amongst the best.”

“So I see. The carpet recovered nicely. It’s just a shame Mr Hemsworth didn’t.” She studied him. “I’ve just remembered. Did you ever find his hat?”

“His hat?”

“Yes. If you remember, we didn’t find it near his body. Given he was a customer rather than a member of staff, it’s unlikely that he didn’t have one with him. You said you’d look for it once the body had been moved.”

“Ah yes. We did, but I’m afraid we didn’t find one.”

“You didn’t? How strange.”

“We can only assume he wasn’t wearing one.”

I don’t think so. Eliza’s brow furrowed as she glanced around the floor. “Very well, thank you.”

The walk down the stairs seemed interminable, but as they reached the ground floor, Eliza turned to her father. “Can you believe that a high-profile barrister would call into a shop like this without a hat?”

“It’s unlikely. Why? Is that what happened?”

“I doubt it, but that’s what Mr Henson suggested.”

“Why would he do that?”

“Maybe he’s just saying it for an easy life. The thing is, there was no hat near the body and so I’d asked if the cleaners could look for it. Apparently, they did, but didn’t find it. It’s inconceivable he didn’t have one with him, so I don’t know where it could have gone.”

“Someone must have moved it.”

“But who?”

Inspector Adams’ forehead creased. “Didn’t the men who ran from the scene have hats? Perhaps one of them took the victim’s.”

Eliza paused as she reimagined the scene. “I may be mistaken, but I seem to remember only one of the men wore a hat.”

Mr Bell joined them. “So, you think one of them worked for the store?”

“We spoke to Mr Henson and Mr Paul, and Mr Henson said there were no other salesmen on the shop floor.”

“Then I’m afraid I can’t help.”

“I’m not surprised. It’s curious though, don’t you think?”

The inspector studied her. “More than curious, especially if Constable Jenkins doesn’t find Mr Bellingham’s hat.”

“That’s a good point.” Eliza set off for the door. “We’d better get a move on this afternoon. We need to get back and ask him.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

The visit to the accountants was uneventful, and once the inspector had the list of Mr Bellingham’s clients tucked into his inside pocket, they headed towards the bank.

Eliza fell into step with him. “Will you send someone to speak to Mr Bellingham’s clients?”

“I will. The list of names means nothing to me, and so we’ll have to see what we come up with.”

“I expect the names we get from the bank will be similarly obscure. Even if the fair-haired man works there, we’ve no idea who he is.”

“I may take a moment to speak to each of them myself.”

“What will you say?”

“I’m not sure yet. I’ll probably check their names and ask if they were in Harrods on Monday.”

“Might that be a little obvious?”

“What would you suggest?”

“You could ask if they were at work all day on Monday and whether they went out for luncheon. If I follow you around, I may see the man I’m looking for.”

“Very well. If you do spot him, nudge my shoe with yours. Discreetly, if you can.”

Mr Waverley was waiting for them when they arrived, and he offered them a seat as they walked into the office.

“The list you wanted.” He handed the inspector a piece of paper.

“Have all these men been with you long?”

“Most since they left school, which is a great number of years for some of them.”

“And those who didn’t come straight from school?”

“There’s only a couple. Both worked for rival banks before they came here, but they’ve still been with us for over ten years.”

The inspector scanned the list. “Thank you. I hope you won’t mind if I have a quick word with each of them before I leave.”

“The two late joiners?”

“Actually, all of them. It shouldn’t take long. I just want to put a face to a name.”

Mr Waverley appeared uncomfortable. “Is that really necessary?”

“We are investigating two murders.”

“Yes, of course. I’m sorry. You won’t take up too much of their time, will you?”

“Not if I can help it.”

Eliza turned to the inspector. “Are we going to ask about the calling cards before we do that?”

“Ah, yes.” He studied Mr Waverley. “I mentioned on my first visit that your calling card was in Mr Hemsworth’s pocket when his body was found. It’s interesting that we found a similar card on Mr Bellingham. Are you in the habit of handing out your cards?”

“Well, yes. I often give them to important customers.”

“I know Mr Bellingham was a customer. Is the same true of Mr Hemsworth?”

“Actually, no.”

“Then why would he have your card?”

“I-I really don’t know. I must have given it to him at the club. In those early days, I was probably hoping to poach him as a client.”

“And do you carry his card with you? Or the cards of Mr Bellingham or Sir Reginald?”

Mr Waverley took out his wallet and pulled out a small selection of cards. “This is all I have. Three are mine, two are my daughter’s for when I chaperone her to one of her acquaintances, and the last one is Mr Bellingham’s.”

“So, none for the other two gentlemen?”

“No.” He slipped his cards back in his wallet.

“Could you look in your top pocket?”

Mr Waverley’s eyes narrowed. “What is this?”

“I’d just like you to check, sir.”

“As you wish.” He fished into his top pocket and withdrew his empty hand. “Nothing.”

“Thank you anyway.” The inspector stood up. “We’ll talk to your men on the way out, but please take note of what I said earlier. With your card being found in the pockets of the two victims, you need to be careful.”

Mr Waverley dabbed his brow with a handkerchief. “I will. Thank you.”

Inspector Adams led the way as they strolled amongst the desks, questioning the clerks. Few men admitted to going out on the Monday, even for luncheon, but as they approached the far side of the room, Eliza nudged the inspector and nodded to an empty chair near the window. The inspector spoke to the man closest to it.

“Who usually sits there?”

“Mr Edwards.”

“Has he gone far?”

“I couldn’t tell you. He was here earlier, but then he disappeared. I’ve not seen him since about eleven o’clock.”

Around the time we arrived. Is he the man with fair hair? Come on, Inspector, ask.

“Does he make a habit of leaving unannounced?”

“Not usually, but he’s not been in the office as much as everyone else over the last couple of weeks. Someone said they thought he was ill.”

The inspector made a note, then looked back at the man. “Do you remember if he was in work last Monday?”

“No, he wasn’t. He was missing until Thursday last week, then came back with no explanation. He looked rather peaky, though, which is why we think he took Monday and Tuesday off this week, too.”

“Could you give me a description of Mr Edwards?”

The man shrugged. “There’s not much to say. He’s average height, has light brown hair and a rather pale complexion at the moment.”

“Thank you. I’ll look out for him if I have cause to come back.”

Eliza’s stomach churned. Light brown hair. Could that be confused with fair hair? And how pale was the complexion of the man Connie saw? I need to ask her.

The inspector said nothing until they were outside, and before he spoke, he stopped to survey the street. After a moment, he pointed to a coffee shop away to their right.

“Would you mind joining me in here? As much as I like your father, I’d rather talk before we go to meet him.”

“If you say so.” Eliza followed him into the shop and waited while he ordered them coffee.

“I’d never been into one of these places before today and now I’ve been in two in one day.”

“Well, I hope you’ll indulge me. What did you think about this Mr Edwards? Might he be the man Mrs Appleton saw?”

“Quite possibly. I need to check with her whether the man she saw was as pale as the one described. Assuming he was, then we need to find him. The fact he wasn’t at work on Monday this week is also interesting. That was the day we found Mr Bellingham’s body.”

“You’re right. He needs to be a priority.” The inspector scribbled in his book. “I’m going to stay in London for the next few days to see what else I can find. If you could make any relevant enquiries when you get back to Moreton, that would be helpful.”

“What will you be doing?”

“Going back to the bank, for one thing. I need to ask Mr Waverley about Mr Edwards and find out what he knows about him. I also need to get my sergeant to talk to all of Mr Bellingham’s clients in case there’s anything there we need to follow up.”

“May I see the list?” Eliza held out her hand. “I didn’t get a proper look at it earlier, and if you remember, we wondered about Mrs Hartley.”

“Ah, yes. Here we are.” He withdrew the paper from his pocket and spread it on the table. “Hartley, Hartley. No, she’s not here.”

“Hmm. I wonder if he had clients outside of the company. That might be what he meant by private clients.”

“It’s possible. Perhaps you can ask Mrs Hartley when you get home.”

“I will. Now, what about Mr Hemsworth? Has anyone spoken to his wife to find out who else he may have interacted with?”

“No. I spoke to her to give her the news, but she was too distressed to answer any questions. Not that she’d know anything anyway. Men like Mr Hemsworth tend not to confide in their wives.”

“I suppose not. Will you go to this club they’re all members of? You may find out more about them there.”

“I will. I need to go to Mr Hemsworth’s chambers at Lincoln’s Inn, too, and find out if he had any cases that caused him a problem. I’m getting nowhere fast by going through the cases on paper.”

She watched him as he dropped two lumps of sugar into his newly arrived coffee. “Will you speak to Lord Lowton?”

“Gracious, no. Or at least, I won’t. I’ll see how I get on at Lincoln’s Inn, and if the need arises, I’ll speak to the chief constable and send him. After what happened last time, I don’t want anything to do with him.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

Connie and Mr Bell were at the breakfast table the following morning when Eliza arrived downstairs.

“Has Archie left already?”

Mr Bell nodded. “There was quite a queue outside the surgery, so he opened up early.”

Eliza took the seat next to Connie. “You were in bed early last night. I thought you’d still be up when we came home.”

Connie gave a faint smile. “It’s amazing how tiring it is sitting around all day doing nothing. I don’t even have any cleaning to do.”

“You didn’t pop home for an hour?”

“No, Frank doesn’t want me to. I had a visitor to entertain, too, if you remember.”

“Yes, of course.” Eliza grinned. “Did she have much to say?”

“Not really. She wanted more details of the investigation, but seeing I don’t know any more than she does, the conversation turned to village tittle-tattle.”

“I hadn’t mentioned the name of the victim to her. Did you, by any chance?”

“Oh, yes, but that was all.” Connie put a hand to her lips as Eliza creased her cheek. “I’ve not spoken out of turn, have I?”

“Not at all. I’m just interested in how she reacted when you told her?”

Connie shrugged. “She didn’t, really.”

“She didn’t recognise the name?”

“It didn’t look like it. Should she have done?”

“Not necessarily, but when I was with Inspector Adams, we wondered why Mr Bellingham would be in Moreton. The only person I could think of who might need an accountant was Mrs Hartley.”

Mr Bell finished his cup of tea. “He’d be too young for her.”

“What do you mean?”

“Unless I’m very much mistaken, she’ll use the accountant her husband used. She’d have no reason to change, and without a man in the house, she’d have no one to advise her otherwise.”

“Might Mr Bellingham have worked for Mr Hartley … or at least for the company Mr Hartley used?”

“It’s possible, but from what I’ve heard, he was rather old school and used a well-established company with men of a similar age to himself. This Mr Bellingham was from a much more modern company.”

“That’s true.” Eliza took a sip of tea as Connie looked at her.

“Why don’t you ask her?”

“I will. I just wondered how she’d responded when she heard the name. Sometimes first reactions can be telling.”

“I told her you’d pay her a visit when you got back, so she’ll be expecting you if you want to go over there this afternoon.”

“Won’t you join me?” Eliza took a slice of toast from the rack as Connie watched her.

“I won’t if you don’t mind. I’d rather wait to walk out with Frank later. I feel safer…”

Eliza sighed as she buttered her toast. “As you wish.”

“Did you find out anything else while you were away?”

“Not exactly, but we may have had some luck in the bank. Do you remember you saw a fair-haired man in Harrods?”

“The one nobody else noticed.”

“That’s the one. Well, while I was waiting for the inspector, there was a man working with the clerks, who had light brown hair. He caught my eye for a second, but by the time I looked for the inspector, and turned back to find him, he’d gone.”

“Do you think it was him?”

“I’m not sure, but it’s strange that whenever we’re in the bank, he disappears. The man who sits next to him confirmed he had light brown hair, and also a very pale complexion. Was the man you saw especially pale?”

Connie closed her eyes and shuddered. “I would say so. Did you check whether he was at work that Monday?”

“We did, and he wasn’t.”

“Maybe it was him, then. Will Inspector Adams try to find him?”

“I’m hoping so. He was going to the bank again today.”

“I’ll feel safer when he’s behind bars.”

“We all will. How did Sergeant Cooper get on while I was away? Did any of the villagers see anything of interest on Monday?”

“He didn’t say, if they did. He doesn’t like talking about work when we’re together.”

“What does he talk about, then?”

“Nothing in particular. We just talk about our past lives, what we want for our future, village gossip, that sort of thing.”

“That’s nice.”

“It is, but I wish people would stop getting murdered so we could spend more time together. A village policeman shouldn’t need to do anything more than clip the ears of naughty young boys and take them home.”

“He’d get quite bored if that was all he needed to do.”

“I don’t care. I’d rather know he was safe. There’s a lot to be said for it.”

There’d been a steady stream of patients in the dispensary that morning and by eleven o’clock Eliza was ready for coffee. She found Connie at the writing desk in the morning room when she went through to the house.

“What are you doing there?”

Connie groaned. “Trying to be sensible. Not that it’s working.”

“Why? What’s the matter?”

“Frank and I have been talking about where we’re going to live once we’re married.”

“He’ll move in with you, surely.”

“That’s what I’d like, and he will in the short term, but he says we should start afresh. He said the house I live in now will always remind us both of my husband…”

“Ah, I see … although it doesn’t explain why you’re at the writing desk.”

“I’m writing out a list of pros and cons for either staying where we are or moving on.”

“What’s winning at the moment?”

“I really can’t think of any benefits of moving. There are a lot of reasons not to, though. Most importantly, where would we go? It’s not often a house around here becomes available.”

“And certainly not next door to me.”

“Exactly. Over Moreton may be an option, but it’s so far away.”

“It would be a long way for Sergeant Cooper to travel to and from work, too. Especially if he needs to stay late at the station.”

“That’s a good point.” Connie turned back to her desk and added it to her list.

“Could you redecorate your house instead, or get some new furniture? That way, the house would have a different feel.”

“That’s an idea.”

“And if you wait for him to move in before you decide, he may realise that living there isn’t so bad after all.”

Connie smiled. “I like that. We won’t be able to move before the wedding…” She continued writing as Iris arrived with the coffee tray.

“Here you are, ladies. I wasn’t sure if Mr Bell or Dr Thomson would be joining you, so I brought cups and saucers, just in case.”

Eliza glanced around the room. “Now you mention it, I don’t know where either of them are. I’m sure the smell of coffee will flush them out if they’re close by.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

The clouds had grown darker as the morning had progressed, and by the time luncheon was over, a heavy rain was falling over the village. From her seat at the table, Eliza gazed out of the window as drops fell from an unseen structure above.

“I hope this doesn’t go on all afternoon. I can delay visiting Mrs Hartley, but I need to pay Constable Jenkins a visit.”

Connie stared at her. “Not Frank?”

Eliza smiled. “Don’t worry, I’m not excluding him. It’s just that Inspector Adams asked the constable to search the undergrowth around the pond for Mr Bellingham’s hat. I’d hoped to call in last night and ask if he’d found it, but by the time we got home it was dark.”

“Frank didn’t mention it.”

“That doesn’t mean he didn’t find it, just that he doesn’t want to worry you.”

“You’re right.” Connie stood up and walked to the window. “The clouds look a little brighter in the direction of Over Moreton, so better weather may be on its way.”

Mr Bell twisted in his seat to peer outside. “Is it too wet to get the carriage out? I was hoping to go home this afternoon.”

Eliza pouted. “Not again. You only arrived last night … and it would be useful to have you around in case I need a chaperone to go to London again.”

He rolled his eyes. “You put it so nicely. How can I refuse?”

Eliza chuckled. “I’d like you to stay anyway so we can discuss the investigation.”

“There’s nothing left to discuss.”

“Until we have our murderer locked up, we’ll have to keep on talking. It helps to come up with ideas.”

“If you say so, but before we get to that, will you excuse me?” He stood up and tucked his chair under the table. “Now I know I’m staying, I feel an afternoon nap coming on.”

“And I’ve got patients to visit.” Archie followed Mr Bell to the door. “I’ll see you later.”

Eliza sighed as she joined Connie at the window. “That just leaves the two of us. Do you think an umbrella will be enough to get me to the police station?”

Connie shuddered. “You’re not seriously going out?”

“What will we do all afternoon if we stay in?”

“We could sit and read. Or do some embroidery.”

“I’m happy to read for an hour or so, but not all afternoon. No, I’ll put on my wool coat and take the umbrella. If the rain eases, I’ll call on Mrs Hartley while I’m out. Are you sure you won’t join me?”

“Quite sure. Frank doesn’t like me going out, and I still can’t shake the feeling that we’re being watched.”

Eliza peered through the window. “There’s nobody around.”

“They might not be there all the time, but the village seems different at the moment.”

“That’s not like you.”

“No, well, I’m still tired after the events of last week. You go if you like. I’ve got used to being here on my own.”

“As long as you don’t mind.”

“Of course I don’t.”

By the time Eliza arrived at the police station, the rain was easing, but she still shook out her umbrella before letting herself in.

“Good afternoon, Mrs Thomson.” Constable Jenkins smiled as she approached the counter.

“Good afternoon, Constable. You’re in a good mood today.”

“I’ve reason to be. I’m in charge for the afternoon.”

“Where’s Sergeant Cooper?”

“Looking at houses.”

“Houses! Mrs Appleton didn’t say anything?”

“He doesn’t want her to know. She’s not with you, is she?”

“No, thankfully not. Where’s he gone?”

“I couldn’t say for sure, but he was starting in Over Moreton.”

Eliza’s stomach churned. “I hope he doesn’t venture any further than that.”

“He did mention something about Molesey, but I don’t know if he was going there today.”

“I don’t think Mrs Appleton would be very happy about moving so far. You’d better make sure Inspector Adams doesn’t find out, as well. He thinks you’re both working on the investigation.”

“That’s why he’s gone today. We had a telegram from the inspector last night to say he wouldn’t be here until the end of the week. We’ve nearly finished going around the village, so he decided he had time.”

Eliza took a deep breath. “You do realise it’s the end of the week tomorrow?”

Constable Jenkins flushed. “Gracious, so it is.”

“If I were you, I’d carry on as soon as the sergeant comes back, just in case Inspector Adams arrives early.”

“Why would he when he sent us a telegram?”

Eliza shrugged. “I don’t know, but investigations have a habit of not going according to plan.”

“We’ll be fine on this one.”

“I hope so. I came to ask if you found Mr Bellingham’s hat by the pond.”

“I did!” The constable grinned as he produced a homburg from beneath the counter. “It wasn’t easy to find, I can tell you. Buried under a rhododendron bush, it was.”

“So it didn’t get there by accident?” Eliza picked it up and studied it.

“You don’t look very pleased.”

“Disappointed, is the word. I’d hoped you’d find a bowler hat, not one of these.”

“You don’t get many men round here wearing bowlers.”

“Exactly, but the two men Mrs Petty saw a couple of days ago both wore them. I’d assumed our victim was one of them.”

“The victim may have had more than one piece of headwear and come back in this.”

“It’s an option, but it makes it harder to work out who our killer is. Never mind. Well done, Constable. Did you get any information from the villagers?”

“Not really.” The constable retrieved his notebook. “As you’d expect, Mrs Petty had the most detailed description, so we took a statement from her. Mr Pitt from the shop saw two gents wearing bowler hats at around the same time, but he only saw their backs as they walked past.”

“Did you speak to my maid, Iris?”

“I didn’t think to call with you being away … and being part of the investigation.”

“You can be forgiven for that. The thing is, she bumped into the men outside the surgery. She’s told me all she knows, but it may be as well to get a statement from her for when the inspector arrives.”

“Right-o.” He made a note. “I haven’t had chance to catch up with the vicar and Mr Hewitt yet. The vicar was out visiting the sick when I called, and Mr Hewitt wasn’t at home. I’ll call back tomorrow.”

“Make sure you do. Mr Hewitt may well have seen someone if he was out and about.”

“I will.”

“All right then, I’ll leave you to get on.” Eliza turned towards the door, but he called her back.

“If you see Mr Hewitt on your way home, would you ask him to call in?”

“I’m not going directly home, but yes, I will if I see him.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

The rain had stopped by the time Eliza left Constable Jenkins, and she turned left towards Oak House, doing her best to avoid the puddles as she went. She was busy concentrating, when she almost bumped into Archie as he left a house on her route. She put a hand to her chest.

“Goodness, you startled me.”

“You should have been watching where you were going.”

“It’s all right for you. You don’t have to worry about getting all your skirts wet.”

“You should be more worried about who you might bump into. There’ve been strange men in the village, in case you’ve forgotten.”

“Of course I’ve not, but I doubt they’d be out on an afternoon like this. Besides, why would they come to Moreton now Mr Bellingham’s dead?”

“You don’t think they were here looking for anyone else?”

“It wouldn’t make sense, if they were. Don’t forget, Mr Bellingham’s card was in the pockets of both victims.”

“That’s true, but you can’t be too careful. Where are you going anyway?”

“To visit Mrs Hartley. Would you care to escort me, given you’re so concerned for my safety?”

“I can do better than that. I was about to call and check her leg, anyway, so I’ll do that before I leave you. Have you been to see Sergeant Cooper?”

“Constable Jenkins. He found a hat by the pond, but it was a homburg, not a bowler.”

“So, you don’t think Mr Bellingham was one of the men Iris and Mrs Petty saw?”

“We can’t say for certain, but I suspect not.”

“It’s to be hoped Inspector Adams can shed some light on the matter when he arrives, then. We don’t want to be constantly looking over our shoulders.” Archie held open the gate as they reached Oak House. “Would you like me to come back for you when you’ve finished here? Say four o’clock?”

“I’m sure there’s no need for that … but thank you. If it keeps you happy…”

Mrs Hartley looked between Eliza and Archie when she answered the front door. “Gracious, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

Archie doffed his hat. “Don’t mind me, but my wife said she was visiting, and I thought it would be a good time to check your leg … if you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. I was thinking I should come and see you anyway. It’s still rather painful, to tell you the truth. Come on in.” She led them into a brightly painted morning room at the front of the house. “It saves going up and down the stairs. Now, where do you want me?”

Archie looked towards the large bay window. “If you could take a seat over there, the light’s better.”

Once she was comfortable, Archie removed the dressing from her leg.

“Och! That looks nasty.”

Mrs Hartley took a quick peek and immediately turned away. “I’m not surprised it’s hurting. Can you do anything with it?”

“I’ll certainly try. Eliza, can you go to the kitchen and ask for a jug of freshly boiled water? I need to clean it up some more.” He rummaged in his Gladstone bag. “I’ve some iodine here. I’ll apply more of that for now, but I’ll need to go back to the surgery for some phenol.”

Eliza peered at it. “What about adding some honey? That’s often soothing.”

Archie nodded. “We could, but I need to attack the infection first. Could you get the water?”

“Oh, yes. One moment.”

There was already a kettle boiling on the stove, and Eliza returned to the morning room no more than two minutes after she’d left. “Here we are, straight from the kettle, so it’s rather hot.”

“It should cool down soon enough.” Archie found some swabs in his bag and dipped them into the water with some tweezers. “Once I’ve put the dressing on this, would you be able to show me what you tripped over? I’d like to know what I’m dealing with.”

“I should be able to. As long as you don’t hurt my leg too much.”

“I’ll do my best.” They remained silent while Archie worked on the wound, and once he was satisfied, he doused it with iodine. Mrs Hartley tensed as she clung to the arms of the chair.

“My, that stings.”

“Hopefully, not as much as last time. Let me secure the dressing and we can go outside.”

Mrs Hartley took a deep breath and exhaled as they stepped out into a courtyard at the back of the house.

“Don’t you love the smell after the rain? It’s so invigorating.”

“It is.” Eliza looked up at the clouds. “They’re starting to break up now as well. We may get some sunshine yet.”

“That would be nice. It won’t come soon enough to dry the grass, though, so we’re going to get wet feet. The planter I tripped over is across the lawn.” She led them towards the boundary adjoining the wood beyond. “It’s over there.” She pointed to the centre of the border, but stopped as she approached and twisted her head from side to side. “Well, it was…”

Eliza studied the bare soil surrounded by the dying foliage of some summer plants. “Are you sure?”

“I’m positive. I was cutting back some of the dead leaves and it was hidden. Look…” she pointed to an indent in the soil beneath a damaged shrub “…that’s where it was.”

Eliza stared at the disturbed soil. “Could you have moved it when you tripped?”

“Quite possibly, but I wouldn’t have moved it far. I certainly didn’t make it disappear.”

Eliza crept onto the soil. “Look there. Would you say they’re footprints?”

Archie joined her. “It’s difficult to say for sure after the rain we’ve had, but yes, I’d say they are.”

“Not mine, though.” Mrs Hartley clutched her hands in front of her. “Look at the deepest part of the impression. The footprints have the heel of a man’s shoe.”

Archie looked down at her feet. “Were you wearing the same shoes on the day you tripped?”

“I was. These are my gardening shoes.”

“Would you mind walking across the soil for us? Away from the other marks.”

She did as requested as Eliza and Archie watched. She didn’t need to go far before Eliza called her back.

“You’re right, the footprints near the area in question are different to yours. Your original footprints seem to have disappeared.”

Archie stared at the soil. “The rain will have done that. We need Inspector Adams to see this before we get any more bad weather.”

Mrs Hartley grimaced. “When are you expecting him?”

“Tomorrow at the earliest.” Eliza sighed as Archie stepped back onto the grass and walked the length of the border.

“We can’t wait until then to find the pot you tripped over. What am I looking for?”

“It was a dirty terracotta pot, covered in moss…”

Eliza followed Archie along the border. “I don’t see anything here … oh, wait a moment. There are more footmarks. More distinct this time and they’re going away from the lawn, into the wood.”

Archie glanced up at the sky. “There are more trees here. They’ll have protected the soil from so much damage. Where do they go?” He was careful to pick a path through the shrubs, away from the footmarks, and when he reached the old wooden fence, he pointed to an opening in the panels. “I’d say they left the garden here. And look over there…” He beckoned Mrs Hartley to join him. “Is that the pot we’re looking for?”

She gasped as she poked her head through the gap. “Yes … but why would it be there?”

“I’ve no idea, but I need to retrieve it.” Archie looked along the fence. “Are there any other places to get into the wood? I don’t want to walk over the footprints.”

“I-I don’t know.”

“I think there is.” Eliza pointed to the far end of the garden. “If I remember rightly, there are several panels missing in the top corner.”

Archie nodded. “You wait here.”

It took Archie several minutes to disappear up the garden and return to the spot on the other side of the fence.

“Can you see anything?” Eliza watched as he crouched down on the floor of dead leaves.

“Was the pot broken when you tripped over it, Mrs Hartley?”

“Yes, it was. I caught my leg on the sharp piece sticking up. That’s why it’s such a mess.”

“You’re not the only one.”

Eliza’s forehead creased. “What do you mean?”

“There’s blood on that part of the pot, but it looks as if it’s from two separate occasions. The colour of one stain is darker than the other.”

“Suggesting that one was made more recently than the other.”

“Precisely. It makes me wonder if Mrs Hartley’s had an intruder and that he tripped over the same pot that she did. He must have realised he’d got blood on it and didn’t want anyone to see it.”

Eliza nodded. “Either that, or he was angry that he’d cut himself, and presumably damaged his trousers. He may have thrown it away in anger.”

“He’d have to be strong to do that.” Archie grunted as he bent down to pick it up. “It weighs a ton.”

“There’s been someone in the garden?” Mrs Hartley’s face was white. “Why? And what if they tried to get into the house?”

Eliza linked her arm. “Would you like me to fetch Sergeant Cooper? I’m sure he and Constable Jenkins would check all the doors and windows and keep an eye on you.”

“I-I’d better not. I don’t want to upset Mrs Appleton again.”

“She’d understand.”

“I-I don’t know. I still don’t think she trusts me.”

Archie groaned as he carried the pot to the fence. “I’ll check everywhere before we go. It will take me a couple of minutes to get this back to the house. Why don’t you two go inside and ask for a pot of tea? We can talk some more when I join you.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

Archie exhaled as he dropped the pot onto a worktop in the boot room and wiped the mud from his hands.

“It’s heavier than it looks with all the soil in it.”

“I wouldn’t have minded if you’d tipped some out.” Mrs Hartley stared into the urn- shaped receptacle, but Archie shook his head.

“I didn’t want to disturb any evidence. It certainly shows why you did so much damage to your leg.”

Eliza studied the blood on the jagged edge. “Do you remember there being any dried blood on this when you tripped, Mrs Hartley?”

“I wasn’t paying attention, but I don’t think so. I noticed the fresh blood, which I assumed was mine.”

“A fair assumption.” Eliza looked at Archie. “Looking at it now, I’d say the darker blood is likely to be Mrs Hartley’s, and the lighter is newer and probably belongs to our mystery man.”

“It’s a shame we can’t confirm it.”

“What do we do now?”

“There’s not a lot we can do until the inspector gets here. Is he definitely arriving tomorrow?”

“He sent a telegram to Sergeant Cooper to say he’d be here at the end of the week. Given tomorrow’s Friday, he can’t leave it much longer.”

“Let’s hope not.” He turned to Mrs Hartley. “Are we able to leave this here overnight until the inspector arrives?”

“There’s no reason why not.”

“And nobody will interfere with it?”

She shook her head. “We don’t use this room very often. Only the gardener.”

“And how often does he come?”

“Not as often as I’d like … hence the reason I was in the garden myself. He twisted his ankle a couple of weeks ago and I’ve not seen him since.”

Eliza scowled. “Did he cut his leg as well?”

“No. He wasn’t here when he had his accident.”

“So we can eliminate him?” Eliza sighed. “We need to speak to Mrs Petty before the inspector arrives. She may well have seen something. In fact, we could call on our way home.”

He checked his pocket watch. “I’m not sure there’s time. I need to check all the windows and doors here and then I’ve still a couple of house visits to make.”

“What if you walk me there and then come back to collect me?”

“All right, I’ll do that.”

Mrs Hartley’s eyes brightened. “May I come with you? If Mrs Petty did see something, I’d like to know.”

Archie nodded. “I don’t see why not. Let me make sure all these windows are secure, then I’ll be with you.”

The wind was getting up as they left Oak House, and Eliza pulled up the collar of her coat.

“If there is someone up to no good, hopefully this weather will put them off.”

Mrs Hartley stared up at the trees. “And the fact it will be dark in another hour or so. If they need to get back to London, they shouldn’t want to hang around.”

“You’d hope not.”

Mrs Petty was in her usual spot by the window as they passed, and she stood up when they turned up the garden path. She’d opened the front door before they had time to knock.

“Good afternoon. To what do I owe the pleasure? Dr Thomson as well.”

Archie held up a hand. “I’m only here as a chaperone. If you don’t mind, I’ll leave the ladies and call back for them in about half an hour.”

“That’s fine with me. Do come in.” She offered them both a seat by the window. “May I get you some refreshments?”

“No, thank you. We’ve already had afternoon tea.” Eliza settled into her chair. “We’ve just been talking about this murder investigation and thought you might be able to help.”

“Is this about the two men again?”

“In a manner of speaking, but we wondered if you’d seen them again this week.”

“I’ve not seen anyone in bowler hats, if that’s what you mean, but there were several men on Tuesday afternoon who I hadn’t seen before.”

“Several?”

“Yes. Three to be precise. I thought they were workmen, so I didn’t pay them much attention.”

“What time was this?”

“Oh, now, let me think. I’d been to the kitchen to make my afternoon tea, and they arrived as I came back. It must have been shortly after three o’clock. Perhaps ten past.”

Mrs Hartley turned to Eliza. “That was around the time you nipped over to Oak House to invite me to sit with Mrs Appleton. You must have just missed them.”

“You’re right. The bells rang for three o’clock as I walked across the green, but I was too worried about Connie to pay much attention to what was going on around me.” Her forehead creased. “Mrs Petty, did you see where they went?”

“I didn’t, I’m afraid. They turned into the cul-de-sac towards Oak House but reappeared within five minutes and disappeared up the road towards the police station. I lost sight of them when they reached the bowling club.”

“So, they didn’t continue past the surgery?”

“Not until about an hour later. They didn’t pay it any attention, either; they just walked past and left the village.”

“They may have come to do some work.” Mrs Hartley looked at Eliza. “Perhaps they went to the church. Mr Hewitt raised enough money from the village fete to have some repairs done to the roof.”

“It will be easy enough to check, but…” Eliza fixed her eyes on Mrs Petty. “When they left, did you notice if any of the men were limping … or had ripped trousers?”

“I did, actually. The taller of the three. How did you know?”

“We didn’t. It was a guess, based on Mrs Hartley’s missing pot.”

When Mrs Petty raised an eyebrow, Mrs Hartley explained.

“So, you found the footprints when you were looking for it?”

Eliza nodded. “Exactly. They were heading into the wood, and from there, it’s a direct path to the back of the church. You can access it from the alehouse, too.”

“They didn’t stop there. I’d have seen them.”

“They must have gone on to the church, then. They may, or may not, have had some business there, but they would have been able to reach Oak House and get away again.”

Mrs Petty continued to gaze out of the window. “They’d need to know that, though. It’s not obvious.”

“That’s a good point. I wonder how they knew.”

Mrs Hartley shuddered. “I don’t know, but I need to get the holes in that fence repaired immediately. I’d no idea it was so open.”

Eliza paused as she studied Mrs Petty. “You said one of the men was tall. How tall exactly?”

“Oh, it’s difficult to say, but the other two were of similar height and only came up to his shoulders.”

“One of the men running from Harrods was taller than usual.”

Mrs Hartley’s forehead creased. “A coincidence, surely. A workman wouldn’t shop there.”

“Unless he wasn’t really a workman. What if it was all part of a plan to deceive us?”

“Dressing up in the wrong clothes, you mean?”

“That’s exactly what I mean. Mrs Petty, can you tell us anything about these men? Did you notice any similarities to those men in the bowler hats…?”

“You think they were the same men?”

“It’s possible. And you said at the time that the men in bowlers were of similar heights. Neither tall, nor short, if I remember rightly.”

Mrs Petty’s eyes narrowed as she stared into the distance. “The tall man I’d never seen before, but the other two may have been the same. They were both middle-aged but wore caps this time. From what I could tell, one had light brown hair while the other was greying. I didn’t see the hair colour of the men in the bowlers.”

“You didn’t, but Iris said one of them had grey hair. We presumed that’s why you didn’t notice, because it was so pale.”

“It could have been. It may have been why I didn’t see the fair hair, too.”

Eliza pulled out her notebook. “So, we have three men. One tall, two shorter, who may be the men in the bowler hats. The man with light brown, or possibly fair, hair, may be the man Mrs Appleton saw, and could also be the one I saw in the bank.”

Mrs Hartley stared at her. “Did any of the men in Harrods have grey hair?”

“I don’t think so. The one we suspect was the killer wore a hat, so nobody could give a good description. The second man was taller with dark hair with flecks of grey.”

“So, he could be the man who came here?”

“Gracious, yes.”

“Does it get us any closer to finding the killer, though?” Mrs Hartley sat back. “There are plenty of men who match that description.”

“You’re right.” Eliza sighed. “I’m afraid we’re going to need some good fortune if we’re to track him down again.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Connie sat in the corner of the dispensary as Eliza put away the last of her bottles.

“Do you really think the man I saw in Harrods was in Moreton on Tuesday?”

“I hope not, but I wouldn’t wager against it.”

“I don’t know how Mrs Hartley stayed in that house last night after learning someone had been in her garden.”

“What else could she do?”

“The first thing should have been to tell Frank or Constable Jenkins. They’d keep an eye on the house for her.”

“She didn’t like to bother them … not when she thought the inspector was on his way here. Besides, Archie checked all the windows and doors before we left. She wasn’t on her own either. Her daughter will have been with her … and the cook and maid.”

“It still wouldn’t have been enough to keep me there.”

“Well, hopefully Inspector Adams will arrive today and sort something out.”

“Do you know what time?”

“No, but I expect around midday. That’s when he usually arrives. We could do with going over our information before he gets here. Would you like to tell Iris we’re ready for coffee? I’ll be with you in a moment.”

Five minutes later, Eliza was about to leave the dispensary when the door to the surgery opened and Constable Jenkins joined her.

“Good morning, Mrs Thomson. I’d hoped to catch your maid. Would now be a good time to speak to her?”

“I would say so, or at least it will be when she’s delivered our morning coffee. You’re cutting it fine, aren’t you? Inspector Adams should be here any minute now.”

“There’s no rush. We got a telegram from him last night to say there was a new lead in the case in London and that he wouldn’t be here until at least Monday.”

“Oh…”

“Is there a problem?”

“I’m just surprised. Did he say what the new information was?”

“No, just that he needed to speak to the chief constable.”

“Really?” Eliza’s eyes widened. Has he found something connected to Lord Lowton? “Did he say any more?”

“He’s limited to what he can write in a telegram.”

“Yes, of course. Never mind, we’ll need to wait until he arrives. Shall we go through to the morning room? You can talk to Iris in there.”

Eliza had finished luncheon by the time Connie laid her knife and fork on her plate and looked across the table to her.

“What will you do this afternoon?”

“I’ve not decided yet. I’d hoped to speak to Inspector Adams, but now that won’t happen, we could go through our evidence again…”

“You did that this morning.”

“I’m still not making a lot of headway, though. Something else may occur to me if I look at it for long enough…”

Mr Bell studied her from across the table. “Why don’t you go for a walk instead? The fresh air will do you good.”

“Connie doesn’t want to go out without Sergeant Cooper.”

“I’m sorry…” Connie twisted her fingers together, but Mr Bell smiled at her.

“How about if I come with you? Would that make you feel safer?”

“Frank said not to … but…” she bit her lip “…I suppose it would be all right if the three of us went together. He probably meant that Eliza and I shouldn’t go out on our own.”

“That sounds reasonable.” Eliza looked at Archie. “Will you join us?”

“Unfortunately not. I’ve a few visits to make and I want to check Mrs Hartley’s leg again and take some phenol for the gash.”

“Of course. I’d forgotten. You’d better make sure the pot’s still safe, too … and tell her that the inspector won’t be arriving until Monday. In fact, no, don’t bother with that. I’ll call later. Given he won’t be here to reassure her about things, she may appreciate some company.”

“Very well, but be careful while you’re out. I don’t want anything happening to you, too.”

“Don’t worry, Father and Connie can escort me, and if you delay your visit so it’s your last call, you can walk me home.”

He nodded. “I’ll aim to be there around four o’clock.”

At twenty past four, Archie stood up from his place by the window of Mrs Hartley’s drawing room and put his dressings and bottles back into his bag.

“It looks like I’ve caught the infection, and hopefully the phenol will kill off anything that’s left.”

“Thank you, Doctor. May I get you a cup of tea?”

“No, I won’t, if you don’t mind. I’ve things to do when I get back to the surgery.” He looked at Eliza. “Are you ready to go?”

“I am. My coat’s downstairs.”

Mrs Hartley ushered them to the door. “I’ll walk outside with you and lock the gate. I know it doesn’t help with the gaps in the fence, but it makes me feel safer.”

Eliza smiled. “So it should. It’s the most obvious way into the house.”

Once they were through the gate, Archie paused as Mrs Hartley turned the key. “Have you contacted anyone about the fence?”

“Not yet. I’m not sure who to ask, to tell you the truth.”

“We have a gardener. I’ll ask him if he’d be able to do it. Or knows someone who does.”

“That’s very kind, thank you.”

“And I’ll call over tomorrow. Have a pleasant evening.” Eliza linked her arm through Archie’s as they began walking to the main road. “It’s so strange that we never see her daughter. It’s as if she’s frightened of us.”

“Some people prefer their own company.”

“I know, but…” Eliza stopped as they reached the end of the cul-de-sac and a carriage drove past. Her brow creased, and she looked at Archie. “Did that look like Inspector Adams to you?”

“It did. What’s going on?”

“There’s only one way to find out.”

They turned right, towards the police station, but their pace slowed as the carriage came to a stop outside the Golden Eagle.

“It’s not like him to go straight to the alehouse. He usually wants to speak to Sergeant Cooper.”

“He must have his reasons.”

The inspector saw them as they approached and doffed his hat. “Good afternoon … or is it evening? The nights are drawing in, that’s for sure.”

“They certainly are.” Eliza studied him. “What brings you here? Constable Jenkins told me you wouldn’t be arriving until Monday.”

“No, well…” He looked over both shoulders. “I can’t talk about it here.”

“Would you care to join us for dinner then … assuming you don’t need to be at the station?”

“That would be very welcome, thank you. Except… Is Mrs Appleton still with you?”

“Yes, why?”

“I’d prefer not to talk in front of her. Not given her relationship with Sergeant Cooper.”

“Oh.” Eliza paused. “The sergeant usually calls at six o’clock so they can take a walk together. Why don’t you join us then?”

“I’d rather he didn’t know I’m here.” He sighed and stared at the alehouse. “Would you be prepared to join me here? The two of you? There’s a private room at the back we could use.”

Eliza looked up at Archie. “What do you think?”

He studied the inspector. “Is the situation as serious as it sounds?”

“I’m afraid so.” He checked over his shoulders once more. “I can’t give you any details here. Suffice to say, I’ve been suspended from the police and shouldn’t be working on the case.”

“Suspended!” Eliza put a hand over her mouth. “But why?”

“Join me at six o’clock, and I’ll tell you.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

Inspector Adams was sitting in a dimly lit room at the back of the alehouse, with a half-empty glass of ale on the table in front of him as Archie ushered Eliza inside and closed the door. The inspector stood up and offered them both seats.

“Thank you for coming. May I get you a drink?”

“I’ll take a pint of the regular ale, please. Eliza will have a small, sweet sherry. Not that we have a lot of time. Mrs Appleton is usually only out for an hour.”

“That should be long enough.” He grimaced at Eliza. “I hope you’ve brought your notebook.”

“As ever.” She patted her handbag as he reached the door.

“Then I’ll be as quick as I can.”

He came back several minutes later and put their drinks on the table. “Sorry about that. I hadn’t expected it to be so busy.”

Archie took a sip of his pint. “Most men have just finished work. This is their first stop before they go home.”

“I suppose so.”

Eliza straightened out her notebook and picked up her pencil. “Are you going to tell us what this is about?”

He rested his hands on the back of his chair. “If you remember, when you left London, I was going to follow up a few lines of enquiry. The first thing I did was go to this club they’re all members of. Apparently, Mr Bellingham was something of an enigma. Very friendly, but despite that, those I spoke to didn’t know him terribly well.”

“So you didn’t find out anything about his clients?”

“Nothing.”

“What about Mr Hemsworth?”

“They weren’t much better with him. It seems they spend most of their time talking about politics and reading the newspapers. They claim not to talk about business.”

Archie raised an eyebrow. “A likely story. Might they be trying to hide something? Perhaps to protect each other.”

“It’s certainly possible, although how you prove that in a club of such well-connected gentlemen, I’ve no idea.”

Eliza’s shoulders slumped, but the inspector continued.

“I refused to be beaten and decided it was time to go to Lincoln’s Inn to see if there was anything I could learn about Mr Hemsworth from the other barristers. It turns out that the Lowton case was rather complex, and the main barrister asked Mr Hemsworth to help him out.”

Eliza gasped. “So, Lord Lowton may have been involved?”

He puffed out his cheeks. “That’s where the problems started. It was a line of enquiry I thought worth pursuing, so I persuaded the chief constable to drive over to Lowton Hall and ask His Lordship if he knew Mr Hemsworth and where he was on the day he was murdered. Apparently, when His Lordship realised why the chief constable was there, he jumped to the conclusion that we were accusing him of murder and demanded that I be fired.”

Eliza’s eyes widened. “He can’t do that…”

“He can in his mind. He still blames me for the fact he was prosecuted last time, and he’s determined to have me run out of the force.”

“You’ve lost your job?”

He shook his head. “Thankfully, the chief was reluctant to let me go. He told me that if I wanted to keep my job, I should pass this case to one of my colleagues and make myself scarce until they’ve found the culprit.”

“Does Lord Lowton know?”

“Not exactly. The chief told him he’d remove me from the case and that we wouldn’t trouble him again. He didn’t mention that I’d go back to work when this has blown over.”

Eliza stood up and paced the room. “That means if Lord Lowton was involved, he’ll get away with it, scot-free.”

The inspector puffed out his cheeks. “You’re not wrong, but the chief assured me he was adamant he had nothing to do with it and that he hadn’t been into London since he came home. For now, at least, we need to believe him.”

“Is that why you came here? To tell me you won’t be working on the case any more?”

He shrugged. “That was part of it, but I found out a few other snippets while the chief was at Lowton Hall, which I wanted to pass on.”

“Such as?”

“I went to the bank again to ask Mr Waverley about our mystery man, Mr Edwards.”

“Was Mr Edwards at his desk?”

“Oh yes. Mr Waverley introduced us and told him I was investigating the murder of Mr Hemsworth. He asked him outright if he’d been in Harrods last Tuesday.”

Eliza’s mouth dropped open. “He asked, just like that?”

“Exactly. It was like spoon-feeding a baby. Of course, Mr Edwards denied being in the shop and said he didn’t know Mr Hemsworth. He only heard of his death through the newspaper. He claimed to have been confined to bed on the day in question, with a fever.”

“Were you able to confirm that with his doctor?”

“He didn’t consult one. They cost too much money.”

“So he has no one to confirm his alibi?”

“No. The only saving grace for him is that he was still very peaky.”

Eliza paused as she paced to the door and back. “Did you find out any more about him from Mr Waverley?”

“A little. He confirmed he’d worked for him for about twelve years and wasn’t in the habit of taking time off.”

“But his being ill on the day of the murder may be a coincidence?”

“If you believe in such things.”

“He shouldn’t still look sickly if you spoke to him a week after he’d recovered.” Archie studied the inspector. “Did you ask Mr Waverley if he always looked like that? Some people have naturally pale skin.”

“I didn’t, no. That’s a question for someone else.”

“I’ll make a note of it.” Eliza’s pencil scratched the paper. “Did you get an address for Mr Edwards?”

“I did.” He passed a piece of paper to Eliza.

“Soho! That’s where Mr Bellingham lived. Might they have known each other?”

“I’d say there’s a possibility, but I didn’t get a chance to ask. Mr Edwards had gone out for luncheon by the time I’d finished with Mr Waverley.”

Eliza raised an eyebrow. “Another coincidence? Was that all?”

“Not quite. Before I left London, I met with Mr Hemsworth’s eldest son. The one who lives in Scotland.”

“Did he say anything of interest?”

“Not really. I got the impression he’d had a difficult relationship with his father, mainly due to his domineering character. He said that was why he moved away.”

“Had he been back to London recently?”

“He didn’t admit it if he had. He said he last saw his father at Christmas 1903, weeks before he left for Scotland.”

“Nearly two years ago. Gracious. What about the brother?”

“The eldest said he corresponds with him occasionally but his brother isn’t a great communicator. Often months can pass before he gets a reply to his letters.”

“So that could explain why we’ve heard nothing from him.”

“Precisely.” He handed Eliza a card. “Inspector Day’s information. He’s the one in charge of the case now. I mentioned your name to him, but I doubt he’ll get in touch directly.”

Eliza studied the card. “What’s he like?”

“Nice enough. A stickler for the rules, though, so don’t be surprised if he doesn’t welcome your help. He’s much more likely to speak to Sergeant Cooper.”

“Did you tell him you were coming here?”

“No. I didn’t tell anyone.”

“So, that’s it? How are we supposed to find a murderer if we’re not allowed near the investigation?”

The inspector shook his head. “I’m sorry. We’ll just have to trust Inspector Day and his team.”

Eliza returned to her seat and took a sip of sherry. “What about Sergeant Cooper? If the inspector involves him in the investigation, I can carry on working with him.”

“You can, but I can’t be seen to be involved.”

“Why not? If you’re out of the way, New Scotland Yard needn’t know.”

“The way I’ve behaved around Sergeant Cooper recently, it wouldn’t surprise me if he reports me for interfering.”

“Not if you tell him what’s happened before he finds out from Inspector Day. He may appreciate your honesty … and contrition.”

“You mean I need to grovel?”

“Not too much, but he’ll like the position of power it gives him. If it means you can continue to help with the case…”

“I don’t know…”

“I’ll tell you what, why don’t you walk home with us and when Sergeant Cooper arrives with Mrs Appleton, I’ll invite him in.” Eliza glanced at Archie, who put up no argument. “It might be easier to tell him what’s going on when you’re both away from the police station.”

“I suppose I owe him an explanation, whatever else happens. Very well. I can’t spend the next few weeks skulking around here.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

Eliza stood in the window of the dining room, watching out for Connie and Sergeant Cooper. She hadn’t waited long before they appeared around the bend leading from the church. She raced to the front door as soon as they reached the gate.

The two of them were saying their farewells by the time Eliza opened the door, and Connie jumped backwards, out of the glare of the light.

“What are you doing there? You gave me quite a start.”

“I was waiting for you.”

“Oh.” Connie’s cheeks reddened as she glanced up at Sergeant Cooper.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb you, but I wanted to invite Sergeant Cooper into the house for a few minutes.”

“Thank you anyway, but I need to be getting back… I’ve work to do before the inspector arrives.” He reached for his pocket watch but stopped when the church clock struck seven.

“Actually…” Eliza cleared her throat. “We have a visitor who’d like to speak to you.”

“Me?” His forehead creased. “Very well then. Do you know what it’s about?”

“I do, but I’d rather he tell you himself. Please, come through to the drawing room.”

Inspector Adams stood up from the settee on the far side of the fireplace as Eliza ushered them in. “Good evening, Sergeant. Mrs Appleton.”

“Inspector Adams. What are you doing here?” Sergeant Cooper took a step backwards. “You said you wouldn’t be here until Monday.”

“It’s all right, Sergeant, I’m not here to cause trouble.”

Connie’s eyes flashed at Eliza, but before she could speak, Archie offered them both a sherry. Sergeant Cooper’s face reddened.

“Is this a test? You know I can’t drink when I’m working.”

“Apologies. I assumed you were finished for the evening.”

“A policeman’s work is never done.”

Inspector Adams pointed to the settee opposite. “Please sit down, Sergeant. I was hoping to talk to you, and a sherry might be just the thing.” He held up his own glass. “I’m in no position to judge.”

Sergeant Cooper’s eyes narrowed. “What’s going on?”

The inspector retook his own seat. “If it makes you feel better, I’m not here on official business. I’m here as a friend of the family.”

Sergeant Cooper looked at Eliza and Archie, who stood between the two settees, but the inspector continued.

“The thing is, I’m no longer working on the investigation…”

“They’ve moved you to another case?”

“Not exactly. I had reason to believe that Lord Lowton might be involved in the murder of Mr Hemsworth, but when the chief constable approached him about it, His Lordship insisted I be removed from my duties.”

“You’ve lost your job?”

“Shall we just say they’ve given me some time off?”

“So, you won’t be coming into the station?”

“Not in any official capacity.”

“Oh.” Sergeant Cooper finally gestured for Connie to sit down and accepted the sherry Archie offered him.

“I wanted to tell you, because I’ll be staying in the Golden Eagle for the foreseeable future, and I didn’t want you to think there was anything untoward going on.”

“I appreciate that.”

Eliza interrupted. “The inspector has some news from London, too, which he wanted to share with us. I’ve a few things to tell you, as well. Could we all meet at the station tomorrow morning…?”

The inspector shifted in his seat. “That will be down to Sergeant Cooper. I don’t want to intrude.”

“But we need to go through what we’ve learned so far and make plans for what to do next?”

“You do realise it’s Saturday tomorrow?” Archie raised an eyebrow as the inspector and sergeant exchanged glances. After a moment, the inspector nodded.

“I’m happy to share my notes if the sergeant agrees. Inspector Day will deal with the issues in London, but I expect he’ll want Sergeant Cooper to lead the investigation here.”

“Me?”

“You’d like to be an inspector one day, wouldn’t you? This would be good practice.”

Sergeant Cooper hesitated. “You wouldn’t interfere?”

“Not unless you asked for help.”

“What about my usual duties?”

“I imagine Constable Jenkins would be happy to step into your shoes.”

“But I’d be in charge?”

“If that’s what you want.”

The sergeant grunted. “Very well. Be at the station for ten o’clock tomorrow. We’ll be ready for you.”

Constable Jenkins was waiting for them the following morning when Inspector Adams escorted Eliza into the station.

“Good morning, Inspector. This is unusual for a Saturday morning.” He beamed as he opened the counter to let them in.

“It wasn’t planned, but needs must.”

“I won’t argue with that. Sergeant Cooper’s told me what happened … and about me being sergeant for the rest of the investigation. I won’t let you down.”

Inspector Adams patted his arm as he passed. “I’m sure you won’t. Now, shall we get started?”

Sergeant Cooper was standing behind the desk in the small, whitewashed office when they went in, and he’d arranged three chairs on the other side facing him. “Please take a seat.”

The inspector took the chair in the middle with Eliza to his left and Constable Jenkins nearest the door.

“Thank you for coming today.” Sergeant Cooper paced across the room, his hands behind his back. “As you can see, I found some old wallpaper, at the bottom of a cupboard, and thought we could use it to note everything down. My pocket notebook isn’t big enough for this investigation.”

“What a splendid idea, Sergeant.” Eliza studied the length of paper that he’d secured to the wall with drawing pins.

“I understand Inspector Adams has some information that might help our enquiry, and it would help if we could all see it.”

“Yes, indeed.” The inspector stood up and told them of the futility of going to the gentlemen’s club.

Sergeant Cooper interrupted. “It sounds like this Mr Bellingham was something of a shady character.” The sergeant wrote along the row he’d designated to Mr Bellingham. “We’ll have to try harder to find his clients. We need details of his bank account, too.”

“Oh, we have them.” Eliza smiled, but the inspector shook his head.

“We did, but I had to leave them with Inspector Day.”

“Had you gone back to the accountants to find out when he was paid and where the other money may have come from?”

“I did, thankfully. His usual wage was twenty-five pounds, which he received around the fifteenth of each month.”

Eliza checked through her notes. “That fits with what was in his account. He’d often pay in twenty pounds between the sixteenth and eighteenth. What about the other fifteen pounds that we regularly saw?”

“His employer knew nothing of it. He was unaware of any clients outside those he met in the office, so it suggests that if he had private clients, he really wanted to keep them private.”

“I suppose the same was true of the larger payments … and the large withdrawals.”

“It was.” Inspector Adams stared at the notes on the wall. “What was he doing with the money, though? No man needs that amount when he doesn’t have a wife.”

Eliza nodded. “Especially given where he lived…”

Sergeant Cooper planted his hands on his hips. “Inspector, it appears that you and Mrs Thomson are privy to a lot more information than you’ve shared with me and Jenkins.”

The inspector stared at Eliza. “You’ve not told them what we learned in London?”

“I’ve not had chance. I didn’t get home until late on Wednesday and then I had Mrs Hartley to deal with.”

“Mrs Hartley?”

Three pairs of eyes stared at her.

“I’m sorry. I’ve not had chance to tell anyone about that either.” She shook her head. “The investigation has so many threads, all the evidence is getting confused. Now that the sergeant has had this wonderful idea, perhaps we should start at the beginning and write out a timeline of what we know.”

It took over an hour to get all the inspector’s information written on the wall, but Sergeant Cooper stopped and glared at Eliza as she relayed details of the intruders at Oak House.

“Why is this the first I’m hearing of this?”

“I’m sorry, Sergeant. Mrs Hartley was reluctant to involve you…”

“Why on earth would she be? I’ve always been very civil to her.”

Eliza sighed. “A little too civil on occasion, and she didn’t want to upset Mrs Appleton.”

The sergeant’s cheeks flushed. “That shouldn’t come into it… I’m the police officer in charge around here. You should have reported it.”

“You’re right. I’m sorry.”

“We’d better get round there now. There are dark clouds gathering this morning. The evidence could be destroyed before we have a chance to look at it.”

The inspector held up a hand. “Before we go, does Mrs Thomson have anything else to tell us?”

“Only that I spoke to Mrs Petty about it…”

The sergeant looked fit to burst. “You spoke to her without consulting me?”

“It was only a friendly chat. I wanted to check whether she’d seen any more strangers in the village before I came to you.”

Inspector Adams kept his voice steady. “And had she?”

“Yes, she saw three men on Sunday afternoon. One was taller than the others and they were all dressed as workmen.” She hesitated as the sergeant glowered at her. “Might you want to make a note…?”

He turned around to the paper but broke the lead of his pencil as he stabbed the wall. “We should have known about this sooner.”

Eliza reached over to offer him hers. “Use this.”

He snatched it off her before turning back to the wall. “Is that all, or is there anything else you haven’t told us?”

“Only that we believe at least one of the men was responsible for the footprints and appears to have tripped over the same pot as Mrs Hartley. The tall man was limping as they left the village.”

“And they didn’t call into the surgery?”

“No.”

“And that’s it?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” Sergeant Cooper reached for his truncheon. “Constable Jenkins, you man the desk. It’s time the rest of us visited Mrs Hartley’s garden.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

The metal gate at Oak House was still locked when they arrived, and the inspector reached into his pocket for his penknife.

“Let’s see what we can do here.”

Eliza winced. “You won’t break it, will you?”

“Not deliberately.”

The knife scratched the metal as the inspector twisted it in the lock, but after a minute, he straightened up. “It’s better quality than many of those I’ve opened in London.”

“We can probably thank Mr Hartley for that. He never liked unexpected visitors.”

The inspector looked around. “You said we can get in through the wood. Will someone lead the way?”

Sergeant Cooper raised himself up on the balls of his feet. “I was about to suggest that. Follow me.” He made his way to the Golden Eagle and followed a narrow path down the side that widened as they progressed. Eliza pointed ahead of them.

“There used to be a fork in the path a little further on. We need to turn right there.”

“I know where it is.” The sergeant pushed through the branches overhanging the path until the alternate route appeared. “It’s down here.”

The undergrowth slowed Eliza down as her skirt continually caught on the brambles, but within five minutes, they reached the fence. The sergeant looked at her. “Now where?”

She checked the length of the panelling. “If you go to the left, you’ll be able to get into the garden without disturbing the footprints. If you want to examine the footprints from this side, they’re further down to the right.”

“Let’s do that first, then.” Sergeant Cooper pushed on ahead, but Eliza called him back. “Be careful you don’t tread on the evidence. I don’t know where it goes on this side of the fence.”

“We may not find much, judging by all these leaves.” The inspector bent down and cleared a space so he could check the ground. “These have been here a while, so they may have helped our killer get away.”

Eliza looked around. “That’s annoying. We’ll have to hope they’re still visible on the other side. We can get in at the other opening.”

The garden was quiet as the sergeant slipped through the fence and stopped to point at some footprints close by. “Look at these.”

Eliza followed him through. “I may be mistaken, but I think they’re Dr Thomson’s prints. He came this way to retrieve the pot.”

“Hmm. Where are the others, then?”

Eliza walked along the border, stopping once or twice to check her position before she pointed to the disturbed soil. “Here we are. This is where the pot was when Mrs Hartley tripped over it. The man’s footprints are a little indistinct. They’re more marked further up where the trees overhang the soil.”

The inspector and sergeant split up, but both jumped to attention as a shriek pierced the air.

Oh my goodness! Mrs Hartley. Eliza hurried to the house but was overtaken by the officers, who reached the courtyard before her.

“Mrs Hartley. Are you in there?” Sergeant Cooper hammered on the back door. “Open up.”

They didn’t wait long before Mrs Hartley arrived, her face flushed.

“Are you all right?” The sergeant looked genuinely concerned as Mrs Hartley snorted.

“I thought I was about to be attacked. What are you doing here? And how did you get in? I haven’t unlocked the gate this morning.”

Eliza grimaced. “I’m sorry, that was my fault. Inspector Adams arrived in the village last night and was keen to look at the footprints before the rain reappeared.”

“Oh, Mrs Thomson, I didn’t notice you there. Did you come through the fence?”

“We did.”

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be inhospitable, but you had no right. You frightened me to death.”

Inspector Adams doffed his hat to her. “Please accept my apologies. I wasn’t thinking. I was just keen to see where the intruder had been.”

She wrapped her arms around herself. “I suppose there’s no harm done, and at least it’s reinforced the need to have the fence repaired. Would you like to see the pot I tripped over, while you’re here?”

Sergeant Cooper smiled. “If you wouldn’t mind. We’ll take it away for you, too. As evidence.”

“Very well. Come this way.” She walked through the inner hall and down a corridor to the boot room. “It’s in here.” She pushed open the door and let Sergeant Cooper enter first.

“Where?”

“Straight ahead of you.” Mrs Hartley followed him in but stopped before turning in a full circle. “It’s gone.” She put her hands on the worktop. “It was here. I checked on it last night. You can see the soil that came off it.”

Inspector Adams fingered the window catch. “This has been forced.” He stopped to study her. “When did you realise we were in the garden?”

“I-I didn’t. I thought someone was in the house.”

“Is that what the scream was for?”

“Yes. I heard voices down here. Men’s voices.”

“Then it may not have been us who disturbed you. We were on the far side of the garden.” He leaned across the worktop and peered to either side of the window. “Where are we in relation to the back door?”

“On the other side of the wing.” She pointed to the wall behind them. “The corridor is beyond the wall and then the courtyard is on the other side of that.”

The inspector pointed at the wall to his right. “What’s on the other side of that one?”

“A storeroom. It’s a little bigger than this room.”

“So, if there had been an intruder, he could have escaped while we were in the courtyard. May I go back outside and take another look?”

“Certainly.” Mrs Hartley led the way to the garden and pointed out the position of the boot room.

Inspector Adams stood with his hands on his hips, looking across the lawn at the side of the house where they’d been examining the border. “This whole area would be hidden from us while we were at the back door. I’m not surprised that whoever was here escaped unseen.”

“But how did they get in?”

“Through the same window, I suspect. They must have been in there watching us while we were looking at the footprints.” He glanced the length of the border. “Are there only two gaps in the fence?”

Mrs Hartley hesitated. “I’m afraid I can’t answer that. I was only made aware of them the other day. Might you know, Mrs Thomson?”

“I’m not certain, but I’ve only seen two. The one closest to the house is where we saw the original footprints.”

The inspector strode across the lawn to the spot they’d stood in not ten minutes earlier. “These are fresh prints, so the intruders can’t be far away. Sergeant, I suggest we split up. You check the grounds, and I’ll go into the wood.”

“I’m in charge of this investigation…” he hesitated as the inspector glared at him “… but I was about to say that. Mrs Thomson, you go indoors with Mrs Hartley. And lock the door behind you.”

“Yes, Sergeant.”

“We’ll knock when we need to come in.”

Once they were inside, Mrs Hartley leaned against the wall. “Gracious, my heart’s pounding.”

“Shall I ask Cook for a pot of tea? Or would you prefer something stronger?” Eliza pushed on the door and turned the key. “You’ve had quite a shock.”

“I’d better stick to tea. It’s not midday yet.”

“Why don’t you go to the morning room, and I’ll tell Cook…?”

“Oh, no, I wouldn’t dream of it. I’ll speak to her.”

“Very well. I’ll come with you.”

The bay window in the morning room was big enough that from close quarters the side garden was partially visible, and Eliza positioned two chairs so they could watch what was going on.

“Sergeant Cooper doesn’t seem to be having much success.”

Mrs Hartley groaned. “I’m sure he doesn’t need to check under the shrubs. No man would fit under there.”

“He may be hunting for the pot. If the intruder saw us, he may have wanted to make his escape without carrying it.”

“So, there’s a chance he’ll come back to collect it?”

“I doubt it. If the police find it, they’ll take it to the station with them.”

They both turned as the maid brought in their tea and Mrs Hartley found her smile.

“Thank you, dear. You can put it on the table.”

The maid curtsied and turned to leave, but Eliza called her back. “Before you go, may I ask if you heard any noises about twenty minutes ago?”

“No, madam. I’ve been in the kitchen all morning and it gets rather noisy in there with the pots and pans.”

“Was Cook with you?”

“Yes, madam.”

“Thank you.” Eliza looked at Mrs Hartley. “Where were you when you heard the noise?”

“In the bedroom … above the store I pointed out. I’d not long since finished breakfast and was getting dressed. Fortunately, I only had my jewellery to put on.”

“What about your daughter? Is she at home?”

“Actually, no. She has an old friend in London, and I persuaded her to go for a visit.”

“Didn’t she want to?”

Mrs Hartley shrugged. “You know Jane. She’s happier with her own company, but I told her it would do her good.”

“It’s probably better than being here while this is going on … although not for you.”

“Quite.”

Their conversation lapsed as they drank their tea, and by the time they’d finished, there was no sign of Inspector Adams or Sergeant Cooper. Eliza looked out across the front lawn.

“I wonder where they’ve got to. Do you mind if I go back to the boot room? The window has a better view of the side garden.”

“Not at all. You know where it is.”

Eliza checked both ways before she ventured out into the inner hall and hurried to the boot room. The small window was swinging open, but despite her best efforts, she couldn’t see either of the officers. Where on earth are they?

She wandered back to the morning room. “There’s no sign of them, so I’ll nip into the garden. They must be near the far corner where the fence panel’s gone missing.”

“Are you sure you should? There may be a killer on the loose.”

Eliza chuckled. “If the man who was here is a killer, I imagine he’ll be long gone by now. Don’t worry, I’ll only be a minute.”

The clouds were growing ominously black, and Eliza rubbed her hands up and down her arms as she trotted across the lawn. I should have brought my coat. She peered into the far corner of the garden. “Inspector, are you there? Sergeant Cooper?”

When she got no reply, she kept walking, studying the footprints on the soil. They’ve clearly been here. They’ve made a right mess. “Inspector, Sergeant…”

They must have been and gone. She stopped to look around but smiled when the bushes further down the garden rustled. There they are. She followed the noise and called again. “Inspector Adams, have you found any…?” She jumped backwards as a man approached her, a cold blade pointing straight at her. “Nooo…!” She spun on her heel, but before she could leave, the man grabbed her arm and plunged the knife into her side. She gasped for breath as a pain burned beneath her ribs. “No…” Her voice trailed off as she fell backwards and seconds later all went black.

CHAPTER THIRTY

Eliza blinked several times before her eyes focussed on the faces looking down at her.

“What happened?”

Inspector Adams’ voice was gruff as he leaned over her. “Someone attacked you, and at a guess, left you for dead. I’m glad you’re back with us.”

Eliza tried to sit up, but Mrs Hartley put a hand on her shoulder.

“Stay where you are. Sergeant Cooper’s gone for Dr Thomson. You’ve lost quite a lot of blood.”

“Blood?” An image of the man flashed through her mind, and she put a hand to her side. “He had a knife?”

“He did, which is why you have that towel pushed into your side. Thankfully, we think it did more damage to your dress than it did to you.”

She grimaced. “It’s not as easy to stab women with all the undergarments we wear.”

Mrs Hartley grinned. “I’m glad you were well protected.”

Eliza raised her head and glanced around the morning room. “How did I get here?”

Inspector Adams’ cheeks flushed. “Sergeant Cooper and I carried you. We were as careful as we could be.”

Her eyes narrowed as she rested her head on the pillow someone had settled beneath her. “I went outside to look for you. Where were you?”

“We found the pot in the wood and wanted to take it to the station before anyone could move it again. We were only gone for ten minutes.”

“It didn’t occur to me I’d be in danger so close to the house…”

Her sentence was cut short as Archie dashed into the room. “What on earth happened?” He replaced Inspector Adams by Eliza’s side and took her hand. “Are you all right?”

“I will be.”

“Sergeant Cooper said someone tried to kill you.”

“Then they didn’t do a very good job.” She imagined her smile was more like a grimace. “I remember feeling a pain under my right ribs, but then I fell backwards. I must have banged my head.”

Inspector Adams looked down at her over Archie’s shoulder. “It’s a good job you did. I suspect that’s why the attacker thought he’d finished the job.”

“You think he deliberately targeted me?”

“I can’t be certain, but my guess is that the attack was connected to the other cases.”

“What makes you say that?”

“He used the same sort of knife that killed Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham. You were very fortunate…”

Eliza bit her lip as Archie raised her shoulders and cradled her in one arm as he ran the fingers of his other hand through her hair.

“There’s only a little blood on the pillow, although you’ve a nasty lump developing. Let me check your side.” He lay her down and removed the towel. “I can’t see much with your dress in the way.” He turned to the inspector. “Would you mind excusing us while I give her a thorough examination?”

“Certainly.”

Mrs Hartley stood up and switched on a light. “Let me pull the curtains across the window in case there are any more visitors, then I’ll order a pot of tea. Will fifteen minutes be long enough for you?”

“That will be fine. Thank you.” Archie waited for them to leave before he leaned over and kissed Eliza’s forehead. “Are you all right?”

“I will be. I was looking for the inspector, but I must have disturbed the killer, and he came at me. After that, everything went black.”

“Let me look at the damage. Does it hurt?”

“Only when I breathe.”

“It can’t be that bad if you’re teasing about it. Are you able to sit up?”

“I can try.”

“Come on, then.” He lifted her shoulders until she was sitting upright. “I’m going to undo the back of your dress and slip it off. I’ll be able to see the wound from that.”

He worked slowly, and once the cut was visible, he lay her back on the floor. “Thank the Lord your corset took the brunt of it.”

“I guessed as much. The knife must have slipped off and broken the skin, which is why there’s so much blood.” She peered at her right-hand side. “It’s not stained the carpet, has it?”

“That’s the least of our worries. Now, lie still.” He reached for a bowl of water that had already been delivered. “Let me clean it up before I decide if it needs stitching.”

Eliza flinched as he placed the wet cloth over the wound.

“You’ve lost some skin and there’s quite a nick, but it hasn’t penetrated too deeply.”

“Will it need stitching?”

“Probably not. The cut is across the skin rather than a slash, so stitches may do more harm than good. I’ll put a dressing on it for now and check it again when we get home.”

Fifteen minutes later, when Archie opened the door to the maid, Eliza was sitting on one of the formal chairs.

“Are you all right, madam?”

“I will be, thank you. I just need to get rid of this headache…”

“If it helps, I filled up the sugar bowl, so add as much as you like to your tea. You look proper peaky.”

Eliza smiled. “That’s very kind. Have you seen Mrs Hartley and the police officers?”

“They’re in the drawing room, but she asked me to tell them when I’d delivered the tea. Are you ready for visitors?”

“Most certainly. I need to give a statement to Sergeant Cooper.”

Inspector Adams studied Eliza as Mrs Hartley handed out four cups and tea and then picked one up for herself.

“Are you sure you’re up to this?”

Eliza sighed. “I promise I’ll rest later, but if there’s a killer in the village, we need to find him.”

“Did you get a look at him before you banged your head?”

“After a fashion. He was probably Archie’s height, but he was wearing gardening clothes. Unfortunately, he had his cap pulled down over his face and so I couldn’t see much.”

Mrs Hartley interrupted. “Was he limping? As if he’d tripped over the pot?”

“It wasn’t obvious, but I don’t think he was the tall man we saw the other day. Having said that, if they’re all working together, we may be looking for more than one killer. He may have accomplices.”

Sergeant Cooper made a note. “I hadn’t considered that.”

“Neither had I until just now. The bang on the head must have done me good.”

Archie groaned. “Don’t go getting ideas. It’s no laughing matter.”

The inspector interrupted. “Were there any other men with him?”

“Not that I remember. He was hiding in the bushes, near the original site of the pot, and just jumped out at me. If there was anyone else around, they stayed hidden. Did you find anyone in the wood?”

“No, but we were so busy concentrating on the pot we may have missed them.”

Eliza studied them. “I wonder why they’re so keen to get hold of it.”

The inspector shrugged. “I haven’t given it any thought…”

“Perhaps we should. It can’t be because they’re worried about the bloodstain. We’d never find anyone based on that. I wonder if there’s something inside…”

“It was full of soil…”

“It was soil on the top, but what about underneath? We should check.”

Archie shook his head. “You’re not doing anything. The inspector and sergeant can do what they like, and if they’ve anything to report, they know where we are.”

The inspector stood up. “We’d better get a move on, then. We’ve given the killer far too long to escape, as it is. Sergeant Cooper needs to send a telegram to Inspector Day, too, so he knows what’s happening here. I expect he’ll arrive on Monday.”

“Will you stay in the village if he does?”

The inspector gazed out of the window. “I may take myself off to Hampton Court Palace for the day, but I’ll see you before then.” He was about to leave but stopped. “How will you get home? I doubt Dr Thomson wants you walking so far, and I’d prefer it if you didn’t. If the culprit is still in the village, we could do with him thinking his attack was successful.”

Eliza nodded. “You’re right. It’s best if he thinks I’m no longer a threat. Archie can fetch the carriage.”

“I can do better than that.” The inspector looked at the sergeant. “Will you bring the police carriage here, as you would if we were moving a body? That way, we can deliver it to the surgery without suspicion.”

Eliza gasped. “You mean I’ll need to go on a stretcher, all covered over?”

“It would be convincing.”

“I don’t doubt it, but what will the neighbours say?”

“They’ll be none the wiser. The driveway here isn’t overlooked, you’d only be covered for the walk between the carriage and the surgery. No one would know it was you. Except for the killer.”

Eliza nodded. “All right. If he was here specifically to silence me, we need to make this convincing.”

Archie sat beside Eliza as the carriage bumped past the police station, then the church, towards the surgery. Sergeant Cooper sat opposite him. Eliza stared at the sky from the stretcher suspended between the seats.

“Were Connie or Father around when Sergeant Cooper came to get you?”

“No, I’ve not seen your father since breakfast, and I haven’t seen Mrs Appleton at all. She was late for breakfast, as you know, and then I disappeared into the surgery.”

Eliza smiled at the sergeant. “I’m glad you’re with us. She’ll be hysterical when we tell her.”

“That’s my concern. Next Friday can’t come soon enough.”

“Gracious, I’d forgotten how quickly that’s come around. I hope I’m well enough to do my duty as matron of honour.”

Archie smiled at her. “You should be, although we could do with the killer being locked up by then. We don’t want a scene at the wedding.”

“No, we don’t.” The carriage slowed as it turned off the road. “Are we here?”

“We are. I’m going to pull this sheet over you now. Are you ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be … while I’m still alive.”

There was no one around as Archie carried one end of the stretcher and the sergeant the other.

“In here, Sergeant. We have a cold slab to put her on.”

“Right you are.”

They lay the stretcher down and Archie made sure the door was shut before he pulled back the sheet.

“There you are. Nobody will be any the wiser.”

“Thank goodness.” She winced as she tried to sit up and waited for Archie to help. “I’ll have to stay away from all the windows.”

“The bedroom is the best place for you. You need to rest, and there are no prying eyes up there.”

Eliza grinned. “It may be the bump on the head, but for once, I won’t argue.”

Eliza rested her shoulders on the pillow as Iris settled her in bed and tucked the blankets under the mattress.

“Will you be all right on your own?”

“I’m sure Mrs Appleton or Father will be up as soon as you give them the word. If they ask, you can tell them I’m expecting them.”

“I will do. Would you like a pot of tea? Or anything to eat?”

“What time is it?” She looked at the clock on the shelf over the fire. “One o’clock. I’m not really hungry, but I should have something. Is there any soup?”

“I’m sure we can find some. Leave it with me.”

Eliza closed her eyes, willing the throbbing at the back of her head to settle, but within seconds she heard footsteps on the stairs and Connie burst into the room.

“Are you all right?” She threw her arms around Eliza but pulled away as she flinched. “I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?”

“My side’s a little tender. Why don’t you pull up the chair?”

Connie’s hands were shaking as she positioned the straight-backed wooden seat as close to the bed as her knees allowed. “Frank told me what happened. You could have been killed…” Tears welled in her eyes.

“But I wasn’t.”

“I should have been with you.”

“You can’t blame yourself. I wasn’t much use to you when you were knocked over…”

“That was different. The man there came out of nowhere.”

“As did this man. I was in the garden, and he appeared with a knife in his hand.”

“Frank said it was the same type of knife they used to kill the men. I told you we were being watched.”

“I didn’t expect them to be looking for us!”

Connie grabbed her hand. “Do you think they’ll come after me?”

“I doubt it.”

“But I saw the man who knocked me over.”

“You’ve not been with me for much of the investigation, though. They’ve probably seen me with the inspector and decided I was a threat.”

Connie sobbed. “What a terrible mess. I wish we’d never gone into London…”

“Come on, don’t be silly. You’re getting married on Friday and we’re going to have a lovely day.”

“I can’t even think about it with you lying there like that.”

“Then you should. Try to take your mind off things; I’ll be fine in a day or two.”

“Was the man who attacked you one of those we saw in Harrods?”

“I couldn’t say for sure. He was wearing workman’s clothes and had a cap that covered most of his face. Wait a moment…” Eliza tried to sit up, but quickly abandoned the idea. “I’ve just thought. The one thing I did notice was that the man was left-handed. He came straight at me and stabbed me on my right-hand side. As he did with Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham.”

“That would narrow the suspects down a bit.”

“Wouldn’t it? Will you tell Sergeant Cooper for me next time you see him?”

“I will. He’s gone off with the inspector to decide what to do next.”

“It’s annoying that the inspector can’t go to London to find out what’s happening there. I still think that’s where they’ll find the motive.”

“It doesn’t explain why Mr Bellingham was in Moreton, though.”

“No, it doesn’t. At least I’ll have time to think about things while I lie here. I expect Father will visit once he’s finished luncheon, and I know you’ll sit with me, but other than that, I’ll have nothing else to do.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE

Eliza was dozing the following day when Connie knocked on the bedroom door and let herself in.

“Are you awake?”

“Not as much as I should be. What time is it?”

“Quarter past twelve. We’ve just got back from church and Dr Thomson wondered if you wanted to join us for luncheon.”

Eliza grimaced as she tried to sit up. “I’d like that, especially if he could give me another draught of laudanum. It worked wonders last night, but it’s worn off.”

“Shall I go and tell him?”

“Before you do, how did you get on at church? Did anyone ask where I was?”

Connie chuckled. “About half the congregation, but we’d already agreed to tell them you were under the weather. They all sent their regards. The only one who caused any trouble, as you might expect, was Mrs Petty. She’d seen the police carriage pulling up at the surgery and asked what was going on.”

“What did you tell her?”

“She spoke to Dr Thomson, and he said he’d had a patient who’d had an accident and wasn’t able to walk to the surgery. She then wanted to know who the patient was and how they got home.”

“Of course.” Eliza groaned. “The police carriage didn’t stay once I’d been carried into the surgery. What did Archie say?”

“He was rather vague and said he’d taken them in his carriage, and she must have missed it. She didn’t look convinced, but Mrs Hartley played her part and ushered her away. She sends her best wishes, by the way, and said she’ll be over to see you as soon as you’re well enough.”

“Poor Archie.” Eliza held her side as she attempted to laugh and then extended a hand to Connie. “Would you help me out of bed? I’ve been here for far too long.”

“Don’t you want to see Dr Thomson first?”

“I’ve changed my mind; I can manage. Not that I can go like this. I’ve a rather nice dressing gown in the wardrobe. Would you pass it to me?”

Connie pulled open a pair of doors. “Where is it? These are all dresses.”

“The turquoise one at the end with the high neck isn’t.”

Connie pulled it out and held it up. “It’s still nicer than half of my dresses.”

“Will it be all right for luncheon?”

“I would say so.”

“You’ve not brought any visitors with you?”

“No, Frank invited Inspector Adams to the station to go through the evidence, so he declined our invitation.”

Eliza pushed herself up from the bed. “That’s probably a blessing under the circumstances. Will you help me on with that and we’ll go downstairs?”

Eliza was the first to clear her plate and she dabbed her mouth with a napkin as she leaned back in her chair. “I hadn’t realised how hungry I was.”

Archie smiled at her. “You didn’t eat much yesterday. Hopefully, that means you’re on the road to recovery. Not that I want you to get any ideas about going out.”

“Not today, but perhaps later in the week. I’d like to call at the police station to see how they’re getting on.”

“You’ll do no such thing. You’re supposed to be lying on the cold slab, in case you’d forgotten.”

“Surely the killer won’t still be in the village. Did you have any strangers in church this morning or notice anyone in the churchyard?”

Archie shook his head. “There was no one new in church. I can’t say I studied the churchyard.”

Mr Bell laid down his cutlery. “I had a wander around with the inspector, but there was nobody there.”

“Good.” Eliza’s forehead creased. “My guess is that the killer will have gone back to London at the earliest opportunity. He’ll stand out like a sore thumb around here. Did you ask if the inspector found anything in the pot other than soil?”

Archie looked at Mr Bell. “I didn’t, did you?”

“I wasn’t aware I had to, but he didn’t mention anything.”

“Perhaps he didn’t then.”

“You’ll have to ask him when he next calls.”

“He won’t visit unless he has an invitation. Not after what happened.” She looked across the table to Archie. “Would you walk around and invite him for afternoon tea?”

“Today?”

“Why not? I’m much better for having eaten something and I’ll only be worrying if I don’t have answers to my questions.”

“Very well. May I finish luncheon first?”

Eliza had changed into a loose-fitting dress by the time Inspector Adams arrived, but he appeared apprehensive as Archie showed him into the drawing room.

“Mrs Thomson.” He nodded his head towards her. “How are you feeling?”

“Remarkably bright, all things considered. My headache’s now bearable, so my only problem is the wound in my side.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” He acknowledged Connie and Mr Bell before taking a seat on the settee opposite Eliza. “Mrs Appleton passed on your message about the man who attacked you. You suspect he was left-handed?”

“It would make sense. Both men were killed with a knife wound to their right-hand side.”

“And you’re sure your attacker didn’t cross his arm to the opposite side?”

“Quite sure. The coroner’s reports should be able to confirm the angle the knife entered the body for the others.” Her eyes narrowed as she looked at Archie. “Did we ever get the report for Mr Bellingham?”

“We did. It came on Wednesday when you were in London. I must have forgotten to tell you.”

Eliza tutted. “That’s annoying. Did it mention the angle of the blade?”

“I’ll have to check, but I don’t remember seeing anything. The angle may have been obscured, though, because the blade was twisted to do maximum damage to the liver.”

They paused as Iris brought in the tea tray and set it on the table between them.

Eliza smiled at her. “Would you mind pouring? I shouldn’t do any heavy lifting.”

“I can manage that.” She handed out the tea before offering around a plate of cakes. “Specially made for you, madam.”

“Ah. Tell Cook, thank you very much. They look lovely.”

Once they were alone, the inspector put down his plate. “Dr Thomson told me you were asking about the contents of the pot.”

“I was, yes. Did you find anything?”

“We did.” He paused for effect. “Another knife.”

Eliza’s eyes widened as Mr Bell jumped to his feet. “You think the killer wants Mrs Appleton out of the way, too?”

“No!” Connie’s eyes were wide as she clung to Eliza’s arm.

“I’m afraid we can’t rule it out.” The inspector sighed. “I really must insist that neither of you leave the house until we find the culprit.”

Archie stared at Eliza. “I don’t want you working in the dispensary either. Anyone can walk into the surgery, and we can’t afford to let the killer know you’re still alive.”

Eliza groaned. “I know you’re right, but it all seems rather drastic. And what about the wedding? We can’t stay in hiding for that.”

The inspector huffed. “We still have five days to come up with something. I’m hoping we’ll have caught the culprit by then.”

Eliza pouted. “That’s looking like a tall order, given that we’re not involved with the investigation. What will you do?”

“We’re working that out.”

Eliza looked at Archie. “You know we found blood that didn’t belong to Mrs Hartley on the pot, and Mrs Petty said the tall man she saw was limping as he left the village…”

“Yeees…”

“Well, if the cut was bad enough to make him limp, can we assume it would be a bad enough gash to need stitching?”

“Quite possibly.”

“In which case, he’d have needed a doctor … especially if it was infected, too.”

“If you’re suggesting we go around all family doctors between here and London, I’ll confine you to bed again with suspected head injuries.”

“There’s no need for that. I was thinking we could be more selective. Could someone speak to Dr Wark in Over Moreton first? He’s the closest if the man needed urgent treatment. Failing that, we should try the surgeries around Mayfair or Soho. I imagine these men would be from around the area somewhere if they knew Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham.”

The inspector shrugged. “It would be worth a try if I were on the investigation, but I doubt that will be Inspector Day’s style.”

“Then it should be. Mr Bellingham’s death is just as important as Mr Hemsworth’s. Is the inspector coming to Moreton tomorrow?”

“I’ve not heard. The sergeant sent him a telegram yesterday to give him an update, but we haven’t received a reply.”

“That’s frustrating.”

Mr Bell chuckled. “It is Sunday, so we should give him time. Let’s see what tomorrow brings.”

“You’re right. I still might write to Henry, though. He lives in that area, so I could ask him to check his local doctors to see if anyone has needed their shin stitched.”

“You’ve just reminded me…” Archie stood up “…this came for you yesterday, but with everything else that was going on, I forgot about it.” He passed her an envelope displaying her son’s familiar script.

“What’s he writing for?” Her forehead creased as she removed the letter. She hadn’t got halfway down the page when she closed her eyes and rested her head on the settee.

“What’s the matter?”

“He’s found out about the incident between the chief constable and Lord Lowton and has jumped to the conclusion that it was down to me. Apparently, Lady Alice is very upset, and he wants to know what’s going on.”

The inspector rubbed a hand over his moustache. “Ah, I’m sorry.”

Eliza shook her head. “It’s not your fault. If I’d been with you, I’d almost certainly have agreed with you.”

“That’s beside the point. If you want to reply and tell him it was my doing, feel free. Lord Lowton already has a strong dislike of me, so it’s unlikely to make things any worse.”

Eliza grimaced. “As long as you don’t mind. I really don’t want to be falling out with the Lowtons with the wedding getting closer.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO

Once breakfast was over the following day, Archie and Mr Bell rearranged several chairs in the morning room and Eliza settled into the corner, where they were least likely to be seen from the window.

“I really should write to Henry, but they’ve put the writing desk on the other side of the room in view of the window.”

“Shall I pull the curtains across?”

“Later. I’ll sit quietly for half an hour first.” She closed her eyes and gently rested her head on the chair but sat up with a start when there was hammering on the front door.

“Who on earth’s that?”

Connie wandered to the window. “Inspector Adams.”

“What can be so urgent?” She stood up and stepped into the hall as Iris let him in.

“Is Mrs Thomson around?”

“I’m here. What’s the matter?”

“We’ve had a telegram from Inspector Day. Mr Waverley’s been found dead.”

Eliza reached for the wall. “Oh my goodness.”

“I’ve no more details, so I’m going over there.”

“You’ve been told to stay away.”

“I’m beyond worrying about that … and Lord Lowton needn’t find out. We have three dead bodies and one attempted murder … all likely to have been conducted by the same killer. I’ll stay in touch with Sergeant Cooper while I’m away, but please keep yourself hidden. This is becoming more dangerous by the day.” He replaced his hat. “I need to go. Write to me at the Yard if you’ve any further thoughts.”

Archie appeared from the surgery as the front door closed behind the inspector. “What was that about?”

“Mr Waverley the bank manager’s been found murdered.”

“With a knife?”

“He didn’t have any details. They’d only had a telegram.”

Archie wrapped his arms around her. “We should be thankful you’re still with us.”

“We most certainly should.” Connie shuddered. “I hope this means we can assume the killer’s back in London.”

“It sounds as if he was there over the weekend, but there’s no telling whether he’ll come back to Moreton.”

Eliza straightened up. “Given we can’t go outside, we need to ask Sergeant Cooper and Constable Jenkins to come here so we can review the case and add in what we know about Mr Waverley. Could we set up an office in the morning room?”

“It might attract attention if they’re in and out so often.”

“Then ask them to come around the back … or we could go to Connie’s. It wouldn’t be unusual to see Sergeant Cooper around there.”

Archie rolled his eyes. “There’s no need for that. I’ll ask them to come here. Just for you.”

Luncheon was over and Connie and Iris, under Eliza’s direction, once again rearranged the furniture in the morning room.

“That should do it.” Eliza smiled as she studied the room. “There’s even room for Father to join us if he wants to.”

Connie chuckled. “I doubt he will. He’ll happily settle in the drawing room.”

“I daresay you’re right.”

Iris was about to leave when there was a knock on the front door. She left them to open it and returned with Sergeant Cooper. He glanced around the room as he stepped inside.

“What’s going on here?”

Eliza smiled. “If we can’t visit you, I thought you could come here. I’ve made room on the wall for your makeshift noticeboard, and we have some clips to attach it to the picture rail.”

“You want to use this as the incident room?”

“Would there be a problem?”

“We can’t leave the station unattended, for one thing.”

“Ah. Perhaps you and Constable Jenkins could take it in turns to visit us.”

He shook his head. “That’s how details fall through the cracks. Besides, we don’t have a lot to add to what we already know.”

“Ah, but that’s where you’re wrong. The fact that Mr Waverley is now dead adds an extra layer of information. That’s what I’d like to consider. We could do it on our own, but I thought it would help if we worked together.”

“And it would… Very well. I’ll bring the notes here and update the constable on things that need doing. He won’t be happy, though.”

“He likes to be in charge at the station. Perhaps you could reinforce that he’s the acting sergeant.”

“I can try…”

Eliza sighed. “If you wouldn’t mind. As much as we’d rather come to you, it’s just not possible.”

“I realise that. What is it that you want to add to the notes?”

“Well, firstly, details about the death. It’s a shame that we don’t know where his body was found, but we should assume it was part of the killer’s plan. There were four calling cards in the wallets of Mr Hemsworth and Mr Bellingham, and now the third of the four men is dead.”

“What else can we add other than that?”

“I’ve been thinking about that, and the biggest question is why was Mr Bellingham in Moreton? He wasn’t a man known for travelling outside of London, yet he had a number of private clients in addition to his normal work. Clients his boss knew nothing about. Perhaps he was prepared to travel for the right amount of money.”

“Are you suggesting he had a client around here that we know nothing about?”

“It’s possible. I’d like to make a list of everyone who may have need of an accountant … here or in Over Moreton … and then you and Constable Jenkins can pay each of them a visit.”

The sergeant’s forehead creased. “Who do you have in mind?”

“I’ve not got very far, but the top of the list must be Lord Harrington-Smyth. Then, I thought about Mr Royal and other businessmen. Some of them may not do their own book-keeping.”

“They’re all in Over Moreton rather than here, except for Mr Pitt, and I’m fairly certain he does his own.”

“That is a problem, but it’s more likely that Mr Bellingham would have met his demise in Moreton if he’d had business in the next village rather than if all his clients were in London.”

Sergeant Cooper took out his notebook. “Very well, I’ll set Constable Jenkins on it when I go back to the station. He likes to get out and about. Have you any other thoughts?”

“No, not yet. Once you bring your paper here, I’ll add on my notes about Mr Waverley, and we can take it from there.”

Eliza was armed with a box of dressmaker’s pins and numerous pieces of paper by the time the sergeant returned, and once they’d attached his wallpaper to the wall, she began to pin her own notes to it.

“I’ve jotted a few things down on each victim, as well as Sir Reginald, given he may be our fourth victim if we’re not quick. First of all, we’ve got their names, addresses and occupations. Then, for Mr Waverley, I’ve got these.” She held up several pieces of paper. “His daughter was acquainted with Lady Alice, which meant he knew Lord Lowton.” She put the paper on the table beside her. “Next, he lived in a house that seemed rather too impressive for a bank manager. Why would that be? Third, Mr Waverley was Mr Bellingham’s bank manager. Did he know something he shouldn’t? Fourth, his daughter was betrothed to the son of Sir Reginald…”

Connie interrupted. “Was she marrying above herself?”

“It would seem so, but we’re still in the dark about Mrs Waverley. It may be that she married beneath herself, and has money in her own right, hence they still live in a large house… It might explain why her daughter attended finishing school, too.”

Connie stared at the wall of notes. “We could do with a copy of Debrett’s to see if she’s mentioned.”

Eliza’s cheek creased. “Archie won’t let us go to the library, but I’m not sure she’ll be listed anyway. Before he died, Mr Waverley told us that his daughter wasn’t presented to the king because they had no one to do the honours. That didn’t sit right with me, because even if his wife was just the daughter of a baron or viscount, they’d have connections.”

“So where would she get the money?”

Eliza shrugged. “She may be in a similar situation to me. Have a father who’s a successful businessman.”

Connie grinned. “New money, you mean.”

“Exactly. Anyway, now might not be the best time to ask. Instead, I suggest we focus on one of Mr Waverley’s employees. A man named Edwards. There’s a chance he may be the fair-haired man Connie saw, although his colleague described it as light brown.”

Connie tutted. “That may be because he’s unobservant.”

“It may well be. Anyway, Inspector Adams has been to the bank several times, and he managed to question Mr Edwards earlier in the week. He may have been nervous that Mr Waverley would disclose some information he wasn’t supposed to.”

Sergeant Cooper added a note to the paper. “I expect the inspector will speak to him when he goes to the bank … assuming they let him back on the investigation.”

“I hope so, but the man has a habit of disappearing when the inspector’s there.”

“Another sign of guilt?”

“Possibly. He wasn’t in the bank on the day of Mr Hemsworth’s murder.”

“Where was he?”

“If you believe him, he was in bed with a fever.”

“Interesting.” The sergeant continued writing. “Can anyone confirm that?”

“Apparently not… oh! I’ve just had a thought.” Eliza put a hand to her lips as Connie and Sergeant Cooper stared at her. “He lived in the same neighbourhood as Mr Bellingham. What if they’d had a disagreement?”

“Were they acquainted?”

“I’d be surprised if they weren’t, not least because Mr Bellingham banked at Barclays.”

Sergeant Cooper turned back to the notes. “So, where was he when Mr Bellingham was murdered?”

“He used the same excuse. He’d gone back to work on the Thursday of the week before but was absent again on the Monday and Tuesday of the following week.”

“Which happens to coincide with the day Mr Bellingham was murdered.”

“Precisely.” Eliza stared at the notes. “It will be interesting to see if he was in work when Mr Waverley was attacked. And where the body was found.”

The sergeant had a separate square of paper for outstanding questions, and he made a note as Eliza continued.

“I’m hoping the inspector can also confirm whether the victim died of a knife wound and if it was similar to the ones used on the other occasions. We need to know if Mr Waverley had the same set of calling cards in his pocket. It will be intriguing if he did, because he didn’t have them last week when we asked.”

Sergeant Cooper huffed as he ran short of space. “Is that all?”

“It is for Mr Waverley, but I’ve done the same for the other two victims as well, in the hope it helps us see any patterns. We have some old wallpaper somewhere, too. Let me get some and we can start with the notes for Mr Hemsworth.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

Once she’d attached her notes to the wallpaper, Eliza retook her seat as Connie and Sergeant Cooper read them. The sergeant scratched his head as he stared at the new information.

“Are you going to explain it to us?”

“Certainly! Shall we start at the left-hand side with Mr Hemsworth, our barrister? He lived in a desirable house in Mayfair with his wife and had offices at Lincoln’s Inn Field. They have two sons but neither live locally. One was in Scotland at the time of the death. We believe the younger son was in Cambridge, where he’s at university, but Inspector Day still needs to confirm that.”

“A happy family?”

“Not necessarily, but nothing untoward that we’re aware of. Mr Bellingham, on the other hand, was single and lived in a one-room flat in Soho. He worked as an accountant in offices in Mayfair, but we believe he also took on private clients. The only things the two men appear to have in common is that they were both members of the gentlemen’s club and knew each other.”

Connie’s brow creased. “You’d wonder how a man like Mr Bellingham got into such an exclusive club.”

Eliza studied her. “That’s a good point. You can’t just turn up at one of these places and demand entry. He’ll have needed an introduction. That’s something we should ask Inspector Adams to look into further. Not that the men at the club are being very helpful so far.”

“I’ll write it down. The inspector needs to be a bit more forceful.” The sergeant licked the end of his pencil as he turned to the wallpaper. “He should search his room to see if there’s anything incriminating, too.”

“That’s a good point.” Eliza watched as Sergeant Cooper finished writing.

“Did you say he argued with Mr Hemsworth?”

“I said Mr Hemsworth demanded he lose his job, but we don’t know why.”

“Did he want him removed from the club as well?”

“I’ve no idea, but even if he did, I’m not sure it helps us now, given that both men are no longer with us.”

“Mr Bellingham may have been our first murderer…”

Eliza shook her head. “I’ve been thinking about that, and given that the deaths were almost identical in their execution and used the same style of knife that was driven into the same part of the body, it suggests they were killed by the same man.”

“Aren’t we assuming he had accomplices?”

“We are, but I still think only one man is responsible for wielding the knife.”

“Fair enough.” The sergeant turned back to the wallpaper as Eliza pointed at it.

“The bottom row relates to Sir Reginald. He’s also a member of the club and has alibis for the times of the initial murders. Worryingly, his was one of the cards found on the dead men, so we can’t rule out that he’ll be next. He has a son we should probably warn, too, to be on the safe side.”

“He’s the one betrothed to Miss Waverley?”

“He is.”

“Does the son live in Mayfair with his father?”

“He lives in Mayfair but has his own rooms.”

“So, Sir Reginald is on his own?”

Eliza nodded. “Except for the staff.”

“What line of business was he in before he took retirement?”

“He was a barrister. He was the one who told us that Mr Hemsworth was one of the best.”

“Was there any rivalry between them?”

“I couldn’t say, but I’d be surprised given Sir Reginald’s retired.”

“Hmm.” The sergeant pointed at another of Eliza’s pieces of paper. “It says here that Mr Hemsworth helped with Lord Lowton’s defence.”

“He did, which is the reason Inspector Adams sent the chief constable to Lowton. Unfortunately, we know how that ended.”

“So even if Lord Lowton was involved in these murders, we can’t touch him?”

Eliza shrugged. “We may be able to if we had a watertight case, but so far there’s nothing emerging from what we have here.”

“That’s frustrating.”

“It is, but we shouldn’t get downbeat yet. Let’s go back to Mr Bellingham. I can’t help feeling he’s the one who pulls all this together.”

“Did he know Sir Reginald?”

“Only from the club. Sir Reginald insists he wasn’t a client of his and that they only had a superficial acquaintance, like most of Mr Bellingham’s relationships.”

Sergeant Cooper grunted. “I’ve met his type before. I expect he only joined the club to meet important people. And possibly find himself more customers.”

“You may be right. Sir Reginald said that the only time he heard Mr Bellingham talking about his clients was when he could boast about them. Other than that, they often talk about business.”

“Did he brag about many?”

Eliza shrugged. “Sir Reginald didn’t say.”

The sergeant needed to bend his knees to read the lower part of the paper. “Mr Bellingham must have felt like quite an outsider amongst such an affluent bunch.”

“Not necessarily. He had money of his own, don’t forget. He had over one thousand pounds in his bank account when he died.”

“I still think he was up to no good. Why else would Mr Hemsworth want him to lose his job? Perhaps Mr Bellingham was harassing him … or after money.” The sergeant’s eyes widened. “Maybe he was blackmailing him!”

Eliza’s mouth fell open. “That hadn’t crossed my mind, but there are some payments into his account that we can’t explain.”

“Before you get carried away, don’t forget this.” Connie tapped a piece of paper around the middle of the notes. “We suspect Mr Edwards knew Mr Bellingham. Could there have been something going on there?”

“Possibly. His name keeps cropping up.” The sergeant studied the note. “The inspector certainly needs to speak to him again.”

Eliza’s eyes narrowed. “Mr Edwards worked for Mr Waverley at the bank, and we suspect he knew Mr Bellingham, either as a neighbour or as a customer of the bank. I wonder if the bigger question is whether he knew Mr Hemsworth or Sir Reginald.”

“We’ve nothing to suggest he did. He wasn’t a member of their club, was he?”

“Not that we know, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t acquainted with them. I wonder if he was ever in need of a barrister. Inspector Adams needs to go back through Mr Hemsworth’s cases to see if Mr Edwards was ever in court.”

“He could go back through Sir Reginald’s clients while he’s at it.”

Eliza looked at Connie. “What do you mean?”

“Well, he was a barrister, too. Mr Edwards may have come across the two of them.”

“Connie, you’re a genius.” Eliza beamed at her friend. “We need to find out when Sir Reginald retired. Is there anything else we’ve missed?”

Connie hesitated. “There is one thing.”

“What?”

“You.”

“Me?”

“They tried to murder you, in case you’ve forgotten. You should be on these notes with the others.”

“Goodness, you’re right.”

“In fact…” Connie put her hands on her hips “…understanding why they tried to kill you may be the real key to all this.”

“I didn’t know Mr Edwards … or Mr Bellingham.”

“Then why were you attacked?”

Eliza shrugged. “I suspect they didn’t plan to, but they think I saw the killer and they must have seen me enquiring about the deaths with the inspector.”

“But according to this, you didn’t meet Mr Edwards until after Mr Bellingham died.” Sergeant Cooper sighed. “That brings us back to the question of why Mr Bellingham came to Moreton, especially when we don’t believe he was in Harrods on the day of Mr Hemsworth’s death.”

Connie’s forehead creased. “If Mr Bellingham knew Mr Edwards, and Mr Edwards was the fair-haired man in the shop, might they have been working together?”

“I wonder…” Eliza pushed herself forward in her chair. “What if Mr Edwards was with the killer before the men ran away, but wandered in the opposite direction after the murder to avoid being noticed? It would explain why our witnesses didn’t see him.”

“It’s certainly an option.” The sergeant added some notes to the wall chart. “We need the inspector to double-check with the sales assistants what happened to the fair-haired man. He shouldn’t have just disappeared.”

“If Mr Edwards’ behaviour at the bank is anything to go by, he’s rather good at that.”

Connie stood up and wandered to the wall. “Going back to Mr Bellingham, you said Henry had heard of him. Might it be worth asking if he remembers why?”

“Yes. I’ll write and ask him. I’ll get a letter in the post to the inspector, too, capturing all our questions … if you don’t mind, Sergeant.”

“Not at all. I’m sure you’ll frame it better than I could.”

“Very well.” She released a loud sigh. “It’s so frustrating not being able to go to London ourselves. It means the investigation will take longer, too. I’m afraid I can’t see this being settled by Friday, whichever way we look at it.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR

The following morning, the weather was dull, and Connie stood at the window as Iris poured their morning coffee.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if it rains later.”

Eliza sighed from her seat in the corner. “It doesn’t make much difference if we can’t go out.”

“Everywhere’s so dark, though… Oh, it’s not all bad. Here’s Frank!” She bounced on her toes as she waved.

“He’s an early caller. I wonder if he has some information.”

“There’s only one way to find out.” Connie followed Iris into the hall and then showed the sergeant into the morning room.

“Good morning, Sergeant.” Eliza put down the magazine she’d been flicking through. “You’re just in time for coffee. May I get you a cup?”

“That would be most welcome.”

Connie smiled up at him. “Iris has already gone for one.”

“Then how can I refuse?” He reached into his inside pocket and handed Eliza a letter. “I’ve had this from the inspector and thought you’d like to see it. He sent it yesterday, but he’s answered some of the questions we had for him.”

“Oh, splendid.” Eliza unfolded the paper and glanced at the date. “Yesterday afternoon. Our letters must have crossed in the post. Let’s see what he has to say.”

Sergeant Cooper

Inspector Day has spoken to the chief constable, and he agreed that we should work on this investigation together. As soon as it was confirmed, I went to the bank to investigate Mr Waverley’s death. His body was found by Mr Edwards on Monday morning, slumped against the wall of his office. By all accounts, the familiar knife was protruding from the right side of his abdomen and the four familiar calling cards were in his top pocket.

I tried to speak to Mr Edwards while I was there, but by the time I arrived, he was away from his desk. His colleagues had no idea why he was suddenly absent. As I write, Inspector Day and some officers have gone to his residence in Soho. Curiously, he lives on the same street as Mr Bellingham.

As soon as I get a warrant, I intend to join them and take a team to Mr Bellingham’s room to see if there’s anything of interest.

If you have any thoughts, or want me to pursue a line of investigation, write to me at the address above.

Sincerely

Adams

Eliza folded the paper again. “So, we can fill in a few gaps, but only the more obvious ones. Mr Waverley was found early in the morning, which means he was probably killed when he arrived at work.”

Connie stared at her. “How do you know that?”

“I can’t be certain, but if anything had happened over the weekend, you’d expect his wife to report him missing before the bank reopened.”

“Good point.” The sergeant made a note on the wallpaper.

“So, we now know the death followed the same pattern as the other men. The thing is, the cards weren’t in his pocket when we spoke to him last week, so they must have been put there at the time of his death.”

Sergeant Cooper wandered back from the wall. “It’s not looking good for Mr Edwards. There’s every chance he got to work early and killed his boss before anyone else arrived.”

“If he’s our killer, which I’m not yet convinced he is–” Eliza stood up to look at the wallpaper “–an alternative thought is that he was an accomplice. Assuming Mr Edwards doesn’t have a key to the bank, Mr Waverley must have been there first to open up, and the killer followed him in soon afterwards.”

Connie cocked her head to one side. “Even if he did, you’d think one or more of the other clerks would have arrived and disturbed him.”

“Perhaps Mr Edwards had asked for a meeting with Mr Waverley before work, to make sure he was early and to give the killer time to escape before Mr Edwards ‘found the body’.”

The sergeant nodded. “It’s a thought.”

“We need to find out when everyone got in that morning.” Connie smiled at him. “Will you add it to the list of questions?”

“I will indeed.” He returned her smile. “Anyone would think you’d done this before.”

“I’ve learnt from the best.”

Eliza tutted. “I won’t be the best if I can’t get this resolved before the wedding. We need more answers.”

“I’m afraid I can’t help there, but I forgot to say, I also have a message from Constable Jenkins. He’s been to Over Moreton and spoken to Dr Wark. He hasn’t seen anyone with a gash on the leg.”

“That’s still helpful. It just confirms we need to look in London. Maybe I should ask Father to go home and pay Henry a visit while he’s there. I’m not confident he’ll reply to me by return.”

“Would Mr Bell mind?”

“I doubt it. He’d rather be in Richmond if I’m being honest. It was only me who made him stay here. I’ll ask him before luncheon.”

Mr Bell looked up from his seat by the window as Eliza slipped into the drawing room and joined him. She shivered as she took her seat.

“It’s chilly in here. Are you sure you don’t want to join us in the other room?”

“It’s nothing of the sort. Not when you’re wearing several layers, like I am.”

Eliza smiled. “I suppose so.”

“Is something the matter?”

“Not exactly, but I’d like to ask you a favour.”

“Go on then. What is it?”

“I could do with asking Henry a few questions, but I can’t visit and I don’t trust him to reply to my letters. Would you mind going to London to speak to him?”

“When? Today?”

“If you wouldn’t mind. You can stay for luncheon before you go.” She held her breath for a second before Mr Bell laughed.

“That’s very generous of you. Of course, I don’t mind going, although I presume you’ll want me back tomorrow.”

“If that’s all right. We need to find the killer before the wedding, and having a few answers from Henry may help.”

“You’ll have to take me through what you know and what you’d like me to find out, then. Shall I speak to Inspector Adams while I’m there?”

“If you get the chance, that would be marvellous, although I doubt he’s in the office much at the moment. He’s busy at the crime scenes.”

“I’ll see what I can do. What time is it?” He reached for his pocket watch. “Half past twelve. Time to put a few things in a bag for the journey. There’s a train at ten past the hour, so I’ll make the ten past two if Archie runs me to the railway station.”

“I’ll see that he does.”

Iris had just sounded the gong for luncheon when the front door opened and moments later Henry appeared in the hallway. Eliza beamed at him.

“What are you doing here?”

“I’ve come to talk to you.” He placed his hat on the stand by the door and, without returning her smile, strode towards the dining room. Eliza glanced at Archie, who had joined them from the surgery.

“Is everything all right?”

“Not really, no.” He walked to the table. “Am I in time for luncheon?”

“Yes, of course. We were about to sit down.” She indicated to Iris that she should serve the food as Henry took his usual seat to her left. Hopefully, a plate of cottage pie will calm him down. “I presume this is a day off.”

“The first I’ve had since I heard about the police visiting Lord Lowton.”

“I explained in my letter. It was nothing to do with me.”

“Don’t give me that. You must have known about it.”

“Only after the event. Inspector Adams almost lost his job over it and came to Moreton to explain.”

“What do you mean, almost? Lord Lowton demanded he was fired.”

Eliza sighed. “The inspector was following a line of enquiry that needed investigating. If he hadn’t…”

“Don’t you think Lord Lowton’s spent enough time locked up recently? He’s not likely to do anything that puts him back behind bars.”

“The inspector only wanted to ask him some questions…”

“Lady Alice is beside herself.” Henry’s face was flushed. “She’s said we’ll have to postpone the marriage if her father isn’t able to walk her down the aisle.”

“Ah…”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It explains why you’re so upset.”

“I’ve every right to be…”

Archie glared at him. “You should be more concerned about your mother.”

“Why?” His eyes flicked around the table until they settled on Eliza. “What’s the matter?”

“Didn’t you read my letters?”

Henry looked down at his empty place mat. “I filed them away for later. I wasn’t in the mood…”

Eliza gasped. “So, you’ve done nothing to answer my questions about the investigation?”

“Eliza, don’t change the subject. He needs to know what’s been happening here.” Archie sat to one side as Iris put his plate in front of him, but he didn’t wait for her to leave. “You’re very fortunate your mother’s here at all.”

“Why?”

“Someone tried to murder her on Saturday morning. Indeed, the killer probably thought he’d succeeded after she fell and knocked herself unconscious.”

Henry’s mouth fell open. “Someone attacked you?”

“They did.” She took a deep breath. “They lunged at me with a knife very similar to the ones used in the three murders.”

Archie interrupted. “Thankfully, it didn’t hit its mark and left little more than a wound in her side.

“But … but why would anyone do that?”

“We’re hoping to work that out. I wrote to you with a list of questions…”

Mr Bell attacked the pile of mashed potato on his plate. “The questions are so urgent I was getting the train to London to visit you this afternoon.”

Henry’s jaw slackened as he shook his head. “I’m sorry, I’d no idea. Are you all right?”

“I’m getting there. The wound isn’t as painful as it was.”

“That’s something…”

Archie scowled at him. “And next time you get two letters from us in two days, I’d ask you to take some notice. At the least, it should have raised the possibility that something was wrong.”

“You’re right. I’ve just been preoccupied with Alice threatening to call off the wedding…”

Eliza raised an eyebrow. “She’d do that?”

“She’s upset.”

That doesn’t bode well. “Listen, if Lord Lowton’s innocent, then there’s nothing to fear, but the best way to prove it is to find the real killer. Will you help?”

He nodded. “If it makes Alice happy … and stops whoever it is from coming after you again.”

“That would be nice. Now, let’s get this food eaten and we can go through what we’d like to know.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE

Henry stood in the morning room, reading the notes on the wall.

“You want me to go around all the surgeries in Mayfair and Soho to find out if anyone presented with a cut to the leg?”

“If it’s not too much trouble.”

“There are dozens of them. I’m not sure when you expect me to do that. I’m working again tomorrow.”

“Is there any other way to find out? What about your friends? Would they help? Take two or three each?”

He puffed out his cheeks. “I can ask, but they’ll be working, too.”

“Anything they can do would be useful.” She joined him by the wall and pointed to Mr Bellingham’s notes. “You said his name sounded familiar. Might it have anything to do with his address?”

“Hopkins Street. That’s not far from us.”

“That’s what I thought.”

“Describe him to me again.”

“There’s not much to say other than he was in his early thirties, with light brown hair, blue eyes and a pencil moustache.”

“Did he wear well-tailored suits and a homburg?”

“He had on an expensive suit when I found him, and Constable Jenkins retrieved a homburg that was hidden amongst the bushes shortly after we found his body. Do you think you know him?”

“I’ve seen a man like that several times and always thought he looked out of place.”

“When did you last see him?”

Henry shrugged. “A few weeks ago.”

“So, it could be the same man. Do you know anything about him? Did you speak to him?”

“I may have said good morning, nothing more.”

“Yet you knew his name?”

Henry’s eyes narrowed. “He was in the shop one day and the assistant must have used it. I don’t think he said much other than to order a quarter of boiled sweets.”

“And you never saw him during the day?”

Henry shook his head. “More often than not, I’m at work…” He paused when there was a knock at the door. “Are you expecting visitors?”

“I didn’t think so.” Eliza walked to the hall. “Mrs Hartley. How lovely, please, come in. You know my son, Henry…”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude. I only called to see how you are.”

“Getting better, thank you. Not that I can do much for myself other than get dressed and let everyone else take care of me. I’m under doctor’s orders to relax.”

Mrs Hartley chuckled. “I don’t expect that’s easy for you.”

“It’s not, but we have this to occupy our time.” Her left arm swept the length of the wallpaper. “Sergeant Cooper set it up for us, so we’ve added as much as we can so we can see what’s what. I was just explaining it all to Henry.”

“How exciting. Have you found anything of interest?”

“A few bits that we’d like the inspector to follow up on, but that’s all. We were just talking about Mr Bellingham. We still have no idea why he was in the village.” She looked at her neighbour. “You’re sure he wasn’t here to see you?”

“Quite sure. I’d never heard of him before. Besides, where would I have met him? The furthest I’ve been since my husband died is Molesey … and that’s only ever to go to the bank.”

“It’s just so strange.”

“I’m sorry I can’t help, but I have some news from Mrs Petty that may or may not be useful.”

“Go on.”

“She said the men she saw in the village last week were here again yesterday afternoon. Two of them, at least.”

Eliza gasped. “They were here?”

“Apparently, they just walked round the road. The tall one and one of the shorter men…” Mrs Hartley flinched as the door opened and Archie joined them.

“My. Are you having a party in here?”

Mr Bell stood up. “Don’t include me in that. I was about to leave. I’m not needed now Henry’s joined us.”

Eliza tutted. “That’s nonsense. You’re always welcome. As is anyone who can help. Sergeant Cooper will be here shortly, too.”

Archie grimaced. “I’ll get out of the way, then. I only came in to see if you had a pot of tea.”

“I can get one.”

“Don’t let me disturb you. I’ll wait.” He turned to leave, but Mrs Hartley called after him.

“Please don’t go. Not yet, anyway.” Her cheeks coloured as Archie addressed her.

“Is your leg still hurting?”

“Oh, no. Thank you. It’s mending nicely. I just wanted to thank you for sending the gardener around to the house earlier. He can do the work on the fence next week.”

Archie looked at Eliza and then Mr Bell. “I-I hadn’t got around to speaking to the gardener. I’ve not seen him this week. Have either of you?”

Mr Bell shook his head. “I didn’t know I was supposed to.”

Eliza’s stomach churned. “I’ve been keeping a low profile, so I’ve not spoken to anyone outside the house.” She studied Mrs Hartley. “Are you sure he was our gardener?”

“W-well … I assumed he was…”

“Did he come to the door?”

“No. I went into the back garden, and he was standing by the gap in the fence. I-I asked if he was here to mend it and he said yes…”

Eliza’s eyes widened. “What did he look like?”

“Well … a gardener. He wore a muddied suit and dirty boots. His face was dirty too, but not with mud. More like he hadn’t shaved for several days but still hadn’t grown a beard.”

“Do you remember the colour of his facial hair … or even the hair on his head?”

“Grey, I’d say, although it was difficult to tell on his stubble. There was definitely grey hair around the base of his cap.”

“And Mrs Petty was sure they were the same men as last week?”

“That’s what she said.”

Connie studied them. “The men last week didn’t have beards.”

“No, but they could have been growing one to put us off the scent.” Eliza turned back to Mrs Hartley. “How was he with you? Did he try to hurt you?”

“No, not at all. He was rather friendly, actually. He asked how long the fence had been damaged, and how I’d known about it, given that the part at the top end of the garden was hidden.”

“Did you mention me at all?”

Mrs Hartley smiled. “I told him it was very kind of you to lend him to me, especially now you can’t go outside yourself. He said he hadn’t seen much of you and had wondered what had happened.”

Eliza put a hand to her mouth. “And you told him?”

“Y-yes…”

“Even about me pretending to be dead…”

“I-I wasn’t thinking. He spoke as if he knew you.”

“Oh my.” Eliza reached for the nearest chair.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to speak out of turn.”

“It’s not your fault; you didn’t know.”

“Didn’t know what?”

Archie wrapped an arm around Eliza’s shoulders. “Our gardener is rather elderly now and walks with a stoop. He also wouldn’t step out of the house unless he’d had a shave.”

Mrs Hartley gasped. “So … if that wasn’t him … who was it?”

“It sounds like one of the men Mrs Petty told you about, but that begs the question, where was the other man?”

Archie gazed out of the window. “Was this man still at the house when you left?”

“No, he said he’d be back in the morning to take some measurements. At ten o’clock.”

Archie turned to Mr Bell. “We need to be waiting for him.”

“Will you tell Sergeant Cooper?”

“Most certainly. And Constable Jenkins. We need as many men as we can muster.”

Henry looked at his father. “You realise I won’t be able to join you? I need to get back to London tonight.”

“It can’t be helped … on this occasion.”

Eliza’s heart pounded as she stared at her husband. “You will all be careful? Don’t forget, three men are already dead.”

“And I don’t want to stay a widow any longer than Friday.” Connie’s voice squeaked from her ashen face.

“Don’t worry. We can invite everyone here and devise a plan. I’m sure Archie and Sergeant Cooper won’t let the scoundrel escape.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX

Mrs Hartley smiled at Eliza and Connie as she showed them into the morning room of Oak House.

“I’m glad Dr Thomson agreed to letting you join us.”

“He didn’t take much persuading, to be honest. The main reason I was hiding away was so the killer would think he was successful when he attacked me. If he now knows I’m still alive, there’s no point in hiding.”

“Wasn’t he worried about your safety? And you, Mrs Appleton, Sergeant Cooper must be worried about you.”

“Oh, he is, but Eliza persuaded him that we’d be safer here than at home, given this is where all the men are congregating.”

“A fair point.”

“Archie and Father drove us here in the carriage, too, so I’m hoping nobody noticed us.”

Mrs Hartley laughed. “Does that explain the wide brim on the hats, too?”

“It does. We both kept our face well covered… you can’t be too careful.”

“At least you’re here now and all the doors are locked. Shall I order some tea before I go out to meet this chap? It’s still only quarter to ten.”

“That would be lovely.” Eliza wandered to the large bay window. “I’ll be relieved when we find out who’s done all this. It’s a shame Inspector Adams won’t be here in time.”

“Is he coming at all?”

“I hope so. Sergeant Cooper sent him a telegram last night, and he replied to say he’d travel over this morning. I doubt he’ll be here before eleven, though.”

Mrs Hartley twisted her hands together. “I hope it’s all over by then and that nobody gets hurt.”

“Are you all right? You don’t have to meet him if you don’t want to.”

“I’ll be fine as long as Constable Jenkins is close by to make sure I come to no harm.”

“I’m sure he will be.” Connie smiled. “Frank said he was honoured to be given such an important task.”

“That’s good.” She brought her hands together and looked around the room. “Right, I’d better go. I don’t want to jeopardise the plans before we start.”

Eliza turned back to her. “Thank you for doing this. We all appreciate it.”

“I know. I’d just like to get it over and done with.”

Eliza sighed as she and Connie were left alone. “I hope this all works out.”

“There are at least five men in the garden and Mr Hewitt’s with Mrs Petty so he can warn us how many of them arrive.”

“I hope he can get the message to Sergeant Cooper in time. He’s not the fastest on his feet.”

“I’m sure they’ll all do their best.”

Eliza’s heart was pounding. It sounded so simple last night. Now I’m not so sure.

Eliza’s half-finished cup of tea sat on the tray, going cold as she stared out of the window.

“What on earth’s going on? I can’t see a thing from here. Or hear anything.”

“Perhaps the man’s running late.”

“By fifteen minutes? He’s not much of a workman if he is.”

Connie grimaced. “He might not be a workman at all, don’t forget.”

“You’re right.” She studied the whole of the front garden. “I can’t stay here. I need to find out what’s going on.”

“You can’t go outside!”

“I’m not that daft. I’ll go into the boot room. The window in there has a better view of the side garden than in here.”

“I’m coming with you. I don’t want to be left on my own.”

Eliza checked the hallway before she stepped out of the room and beckoned for Connie to follow her. “It’s not far, just around this corner.” She breathed a sigh of relief as she reached for the handle and pushed open the door but jumped backwards with a shriek.

“Stop. Police.” Constable Jenkins appeared, his truncheon raised, as Eliza fell back onto the wall, her hand over her heart. Connie stood beside her, her eyes wide.

“Oh my goodness. You frightened the life out of me.” Eliza looked at Connie’s deathly white face. “Out of us. What are you doing here? You’re supposed to be in the garden.”

The constable lowered his truncheon. “I was too conspicuous out there, so Mrs Hartley suggested I come in here and keep an eye on her through the window until Mr Hewitt arrived.”

“So there’s no one with her now?” Eliza hurried to the window to see their hostess cutting back some dead flowers. “Oh … there she is. Thank goodness. Is there no sign of the man yet?”

“Nothing.” He checked his pocket watch. “It’s almost twenty past, too. Perhaps he’s not coming.”

“That’s inconsiderate of him. I wonder if it was all a ploy by the man in question to get away from the house yesterday.”

Constable Jenkins scratched his head. “What do we do now?”

“I really don’t know.”

Connie peered over Eliza’s shoulder. “Could we attract Mrs Hartley’s attention and speak to her? She may be able to get a message to someone.”

Constable Jenkins put his fingers between his lips and let out a low whistle. When Mrs Hartley failed to respond, he tried again, louder. “That did it.”

Mrs Hartley made her way to the house as casually as she could and stopped by the window as she continued to survey the garden. “Did you want me?”

“It’s twenty past. We’re beginning to think he’s not coming. Do you know where any of the others are? We need to ask what we should do.”

“Leave it with me.” She wandered over to the front border and stopped to prune a large shrub.

Eliza strained to see her. “Is someone stood behind that?”

“Your father, I think. He said he’d be able to see Mr Hewitt from there.”

“I hope he’s right. I suppose we’ll have to wait and see.”

Eliza sighed as the clock chimed for quarter to twelve and Mrs Hartley led the group of men into the morning room.

“Is that it? He didn’t turn up?”

Archie grunted. “It looks like it. He probably had no intention of returning.”

“Which suggests that the man here yesterday probably was the killer.”

Archie puffed out his cheeks. “You may be right. At least it looks like Mrs Hartley isn’t on his hit list.”

Eliza turned to Mr Hewitt. “Didn’t Inspector Adams arrive?”

“His carriage arrived about half an hour ago and we assumed he must have gone to Oak House through the wood.”

“How strange. Maybe he got waylaid at the station.”

Sergeant Cooper scowled. “Why would he when there’s nobody there?”

Archie shrugged. “I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough, but for now, I think we should get the ladies home. Constable Jenkins, are you able to stay with Mrs Hartley in case our man turns up?”

The constable turned to the sergeant. “Will you need me for anything else?”

“No. You stay for now. I’ll go to the station and come back to relieve you in an hour.”

“You’ll…” Connie bit her lip as Eliza glared at her. “Yes, you’re right. We can’t leave Mrs Hartley on her own at a time like this.”

“Good.” Archie nodded. “I’ll go for the carriage, then.”

The carriage had been parked near the stables, and it was fifteen minutes later when Archie drove round to the front of the house. Eliza saw him from the morning room window.

“Here he is.” She smiled at Mrs Hartley. “Will you be all right on your own?”

“I will be with the constable here, and Jane will be home later today.”

“Well, you know where we are if you need us.”

She nodded. “Thank you.”

The drive to the surgery took them past the police station, but the door was firmly closed. “It doesn’t look like the inspector’s arrived.”

Mr Bell followed their gaze. “He wouldn’t have a key.”

“He wouldn’t need one.” Connie’s cheeks coloured as they looked at her. “Frank always leaves a key under a brick around the back if he has to lock up.”

“I hope the rest of the village doesn’t find out.”

She chuckled. “Of course they won’t. You won’t tell them, will you?”

He tapped the side of his nose. “Your secret’s safe with me.”

Eliza watched as the carriage slowed and turned right into the surgery. “Will we go in around the back?”

Archie peered through the window. “I think so. Even if the killer knows you’re still alive, it won’t do to flaunt the fact.”

“Even if he’s not here?”

“I’d rather be on the safe side.”

As soon as they reached the stables, Archie opened the carriage door and jumped down before the coachman joined them. “Here you are, ladies.” He rolled down the steps. “I hope Cook’s made us something warming. It was chilly standing in those woods.”

“That’s where we had the advantage…” Eliza led the way to the back door, but stopped as she rounded the corner. “What on earth…?”

“Inspector Adams.” Archie held out a hand as the inspector joined them. “What’s going on?”

He sighed. “I’m relieved you’re all safe and sound. Your maid, Iris, came tearing down the street after me as I arrived in the village. Someone put a brick through the window and got into the house.”

Eliza tasted bile in the back of her throat, and she put a hand to her mouth. “Someone’s been here?”

“I’m afraid so. My guess is that they came along the riverbank, so even Mrs Petty wouldn’t have seen them. Thankfully, they don’t appear to have done much damage … to the drawing room at least, but they disturbed the maid when she was cleaning one of the bedrooms and scared her half to death.”

“Poor Iris.” Eliza’s head swam, and she reached for the wall. “I need to sit down.”

“Mrs Appleton too.” Mr Bell caught hold of Connie as her knees buckled. “Have you checked next door?”

“No … not yet.” The inspector glanced at Connie’s small cottage. “Why don’t you go inside and I’ll follow you in?”

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

Archie led the way through the back door of the surgery and on to the hallway beyond.

“The door to the morning room is still closed. Why don’t we go in there?”

Eliza’s legs were like jelly as she allowed Archie to guide her along the hall, but he had no sooner pushed it open when she shrieked.

“The wallpaper! Oh my goodness.” Her strength returned as she dashed into the room, bending down to pick up some of the shredded paper from the floor. “It’s ruined. All that evidence destroyed.” She flopped onto the floor trying to make sense of the fragments she picked up. “Why didn’t I copy it all into my notebook? I won’t remember everything now.”

Connie collapsed onto the nearest chair. “Do you think this is why they broke in … or were they after us?”

Archie shook his head. “It’s impossible to tell, but they may have known that we’d gone to the wood.”

Connie wrapped her arms around herself. “When will this end? I wish we’d never gone to Harrods…”

“Harrods.” Eliza leaned back against the wall and looked up at Archie. “The murder there must be what this is all about. It’s becoming more obvious that it was the killer who pushed past us, and he wants to be rid of us so we can’t tell any tales.”

Archie crouched down beside her. “Then we need to take you both away from here…”

“But the wedding’s on Friday.” Tears streamed down Connie’s cheeks. “I can’t be in London…”

“It will only be for tonight. We can’t stay here with the place as it is.”

Eliza looked at her father. “May we come to London with you? If I can retrieve the letters I sent to Henry and the inspector, we may be able to piece the evidence together again.”

“Of course you can, although I can’t guarantee that these men don’t know where I live.”

Inspector Adams joined them. “There’s no need to worry about that. I’ll have a police officer posted to the house.” He stared down at the debris on the floor. “What happened here?”

Eliza shook her head. “When I couldn’t leave the house, Sergeant Cooper brought his makeshift noticeboard here, and we had all the suspects and timings written on it. The man or men who broke in clearly didn’t like what they saw.”

“No.” His eyes scanned the floor. “What’s that?” He bent down and picked up a calling card. “Mrs Eliza Thomson. Did you put that there?”

“No. It must have come from the writing desk, although … it can’t have.” She looked over to the corner of the room where the drawers of the desk remained closed. “I’d run out and was planning on ordering some in London on the day of the incident.” She stared at the card. “How did it get there? They must have found it lying around the house.” She closed her eyes. “Is there anywhere they didn’t go?” She paused before looking up at the inspector. “What about Connie’s house?”

“Thankfully, there are no signs of a break-in.”

“That’s a relief … although it suggests they’ve been watching us. Did they know Connie was staying here?”

“We can’t rule it out.”

Eliza sighed. “Can it get any worse? Oh! Yes, it can. How are Iris and Cook?”

“They’re recovering. We sat them both in the kitchen with a glass of brandy. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. I’m wondering if we shouldn’t have one, too. My nerves are in pieces.”

“Come on, let me help you up.” Archie reached for her hands. “I’ve checked the dining room, and it doesn’t look as if they’ve been in there. Let’s get you settled, and I’ll pour us all a drink.”

The brandy burned as Eliza took a large mouthful, but she shuddered as it reached her stomach.

“Did we really deserve this, just for being in a shop at the wrong time?”

Her father patted her hand. “If they found out you’re investigating the murders, it may mean you’re getting too close to the truth.”

“But how would they know?”

“You did visit Mr Waverley several times and saw Mr Edwards while you were at the bank. Then you visited Sir Reginald. Not to mention being at Oak House when the pot was found.”

“But how did they know where to find me?”

“This.” Mr Bell fingered the calling card that had been placed on the table. “You must have given it to someone while you were in London?”

“I don’t think so. As I said before, I’d run out.”

“Then why does it have my address on the back … in your handwriting?”

“Does it?” Her eyes narrowed, and she turned the card over in her hand. “Wait a moment. I gave it to one of the salesmen. We were about to take Connie to the hospital, and I needed him to tell the police where they could contact me.”

“Was it the senior one who helped us with the wheelchair?”

“Yes.”

Archie raised an eyebrow. “If he was a senior salesman at Harrods, I doubt very much he was in our morning room a couple of hours ago. He’d have been at work.”

“He may have passed the card to someone. Or dropped it. I suspect the person who left it in the other room didn’t do it on purpose. Unless they wanted to warn me I’m being regarded in the same way as the men named on the calling cards.”

“I suppose any of those are possible. It’s a chilling thought, though.”

“Maybe that’s what they wanted. To frighten me.” Her eyes were wide as she glanced around the table. “We need to go back to the scene of the crime. I’m sure that’s the crux of this case. Studying everything properly may spark some memories.”

“We can’t go back.” Connie’s voice trembled. “What if they attack us?”

“We won’t be alone. Father will come with us and the inspector.” She looked at Archie. “What about you?”

“I’m not letting you go on your own. I’ll make arrangements with Dr Wark for him to cover tomorrow’s surgery.”

Eliza smiled. “Thank you. If we all go together, they can’t attack us all.”

The police carriage pulled up outside the surgery at quarter to three that afternoon and Sergeant Cooper jumped out as Mr Bell ushered Eliza and Connie towards it.

The sergeant took hold of Connie’s hands. “I wish this wasn’t necessary.”

“I’ll be back tomorrow. I promise. I’m not missing our wedding.”

“I should hope not.” He tried to smile. “Inspector Adams has promised to take care of you.”

She nodded. “You be careful, too. The killer may still be in the village.”

“Don’t worry about me.” He looked up as Archie joined them.

“Afternoon, Sergeant. We’ve had someone board up the window in the drawing room, but we’re expecting the glazier tomorrow. Iris and Cook will be here, but they’re still rather nervous, so I said I’d ask you to call and check on them.”

“I can do that. It will give me a chance to make sure Mrs Appleton’s house is in one piece, too. We’ll be moving in on Friday and I don’t want any problems.”

Connie sighed. “I was hoping to move my personal possessions back tomorrow…”

“Don’t you worry about that. There’s plenty of time for these things.”

Eliza smiled as she indicated for Connie to get into the carriage. “The train leaves at ten past, and we’d better not be late, otherwise there won’t be time to pick up the letters.”

There were tears in Connie’s eyes as she bid the sergeant farewell and climbed into the carriage.

“We’ll look after her, Sergeant. Please don’t worry.”

He nodded but said nothing as the inspector arrived.

“Are we ready? We don’t want to miss the train.”

“As ready as we’ll ever be.” Eliza climbed in after Connie and sat so that Archie, Mr Bell and the inspector could sit opposite. “We’ll see you soon.” Eliza scanned the village as the carriage left at a sedate pace. “I hope we’re not being watched.”

“Well, if we are, the blackguards will hopefully leave the village alone.”

“We need to work out what we’re going to do tomorrow. It will be easy enough to find the salesmen again, but not the men we saw running from the scene. I’m worried that unless we can get a confession from someone, we’ll never find them.”

Mr Bell smiled at her. “We can think about that when we get to Richmond. For now, just relax and enjoy the journey.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

The large red-brick department store dominated the area, and as the carriage advanced towards it, Eliza’s stomach churned.

“I hope there’s no trouble.”

Archie gave a weak smile. “Don’t we all. At least we’ve a plan for what we’re doing.”

She nodded. “Connie and I will make our way to the fourth floor, as we did on the day in question, to see if anyone recognises or approaches us.”

“If they do, we’ll be right there, but if you notice anything else of interest or concern, raise the handle of your umbrella above your shoulder.”

“I will. If I’m using it as a walking stick, all is well. I hope Inspector Adams and his men are here.”

Archie checked his pocket watch. “It’s five past ten, so we may be a little early.”

“That should be all right, shouldn’t it? I doubt we’ll need them immediately.”

“I hope not.”

Eliza took Archie’s hand as she climbed down from the carriage and waited while he helped Connie. Once they were ready, they approached the main door, which was being held open by an impeccably dressed doorman in a tailcoat and top hat.

“Good morning, ladies.”

“Good morning.” Eliza was about to walk past but stopped suddenly. “May I ask if you’re here every day?”

“Six days a week, madam. We don’t open on a Sunday.”

“Of course, that’s what I meant. I wonder, a couple of weeks ago, on the Tuesday just before one o’clock, to be precise, do you remember seeing any men running from the store?”

“Running, madam? Gracious, no. We don’t allow that sort of behaviour here.”

“I didn’t think so, which is why I thought you’d remember if anyone did.”

“I’m sure I would, although I could have missed it. There’s another door a little further down and eight more around the rest of the building.”

“Ah, right. Thank you.” That’s not helpful. Eliza lowered her voice as they continued into the shop. “We’ve no time to visit each door now, but if we have no joy upstairs, we can come back.”

“Do we need to?” Connie cocked her head to one side. “Wouldn’t the men in question have slowed to a walk by the time they got downstairs? That way, they could merge with the rest of the customers.”

“That’s a good point and means we only need to check if we’re clutching at straws by the time we leave…”

Eliza’s mind was racing as they strolled to the moving staircase, and once they were safely on board, she studied the people on the ground floor. “It’s difficult to see people’s faces from here.” She glanced over her shoulder and smiled. “Archie and Father are still with us, though.”

“I wish Frank was.”

“Come on, don’t worry. This time tomorrow, you’ll be ready to leave for church and this will be nothing but a memory.”

She sighed. “I just can’t see past the next couple of hours. I hope things go according to plan.”

“You and me both.”

The journey to the top of the building was slow, and when they finally alighted on the fourth floor, Eliza led them towards the children’s department.

“Let’s find out what’s waiting for us.”

The sales area was noticeably quieter than the lower floors, and Eliza paused at the door as she watched the customers closest to them. “There’s Mr Henson, the senior salesman, but there don’t seem to be any other members of staff. I wonder if he’s on his own.”

“Mr Paul could be in the stockroom again.”

“Even so, two members of staff doesn’t seem enough for such a big department. Mr Henson insisted no salesmen had left the shop floor after the murder, but he could have been lying.”

“Could the men who caused the problem have been salesmen?”

“Perhaps. Keep your eyes open for them.”

As they glanced at the clothes, Archie and Mr Bell caught them up, but Archie kept his back to them as he spoke.

“Was it this quiet on the day of the incident?”

“Perhaps a little busier. Why?”

“There’s nobody here likely to cause any trouble. They’d be too obvious.”

“But there’d be fewer witnesses.”

“That’s true.”

Eliza surveyed the scattering of women admiring the range of dresses and boys’ formal suits. “Should I speak to Mr Henson and find out if the men running from the shop have been back?”

“He said he hadn’t seen them, so even if they had, he wouldn’t recognise them.”

“He claimed not to have, but it would be a way of checking. He may have forgotten what he told us the first time around.”

Archie checked over his shoulders. “I’m not sure it’s a good idea to flaunt the fact that you’re here, especially not by asking questions.”

“You’re right. If he was lying, we can’t rule out the possibility that he was involved in the stabbing.”

Archie grimaced. “If that’s the case, you’d better come with me.” He indicated to the accounts section, adjacent to the dining room. “I may as well settle my bill while I’m here.”

“If we must.” She took the arm Archie offered as Connie walked with Mr Bell. “I’d like to walk around the shop floor before we go into the dining room, though. And find the storeroom. It may jog my memory, or Connie’s.”

“I’m sure we can do that.” Archie released her arm and stepped towards the cashier, but as soon as the man greeted Archie, she froze.

Oh my goodness. She took a deep breath before stepping back to Connie and indicating to the man behind the counter. “Do you recognise him?”

Connie didn’t need to speak as her face drained to a deathly white.

“I thought so. He has a very distinctive voice. Thankfully, I doubt he’s seen us.” She leaned into Mr Bell. “Will you tell Archie we’re waiting on the other side of the door?”

They scurried towards the exit, only releasing their breath when they reached the shop floor. “That was close…” Eliza swallowed her words as Mr Henson approached them.

“Good morning, ladies, may I help?”

“Erm … no, thank you. We’re waiting for my husband. He won’t be a minute…”

“And in the meantime, I’m with them.” Mr Bell doffed his hat as he arrived at Eliza’s side. “Mr Henson, isn’t it?”

The salesman stared blankly at him. “I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage.”

“Mr Bell. We were in the shop when you had an incident.”

“Oh, yes. I remember… And you’re Mrs Thomson.” He studied Connie. “May I assume you’re the lady who had the accident?”

“Y-yes. That was me.”

“I’m glad you’re out and about again. It was a nasty business with the knife.”

Mr Bell grunted. “Do you know if the police have caught the culprit yet?”

“I can’t say I do. I’ve not seen them since the day in question. Not that I expected to, you understand.”

“Oh, I didn’t mean to imply anything. I’d just expect them to inform you if they had anyone in custody.”

“Ah, I see. No. Nobody’s informed me of anything.”

“Never mind. No doubt they’re still working on it.”

“Yes.” Mr Henson gave a nod to Archie as he joined them, but immediately turned to leave.

“What was that about?”

“We need to talk.” Eliza made sure Mr Henson was out of earshot. “May we go for coffee now?”

“You said you wanted to walk around the store.”

“I did, but there’s been a change of plan.”

Archie checked the clock on the wall. “We’re still early for Inspector Adams.”

“I’m sure he won’t mind if we’ve solved the murder by the time he gets here.”

Archie looked at Mr Bell. “What on earth happened? I was only gone for a minute.”

“Search me. We’d better go and get our elevenses.”

Archie dropped two lumps of brown sugar into his coffee and stirred it slowly.

“Let me get this right. You’re saying that the cashier is the man who knocked Mrs Appleton to the ground?”

Eliza nodded. “I’m sure of it. Connie is, too. Aren’t you?”

Tears welled in Connie’s eyes. “It all came flooding back to me.”

“So you think he’s the killer?”

“That’s the bit we’re not sure of. Whoever it was left the knife in the body, so it’s anyone’s guess who actually inflicted the fatal wound.”

Connie interrupted. “Was it me, or did Mr Henson give the impression he was hiding something?”

“I’m not sure about that, but he acted as if he’d forgotten who we were, which was strange given I spoke to him when I visited last week.” Eliza looked at Archie. “He seemed fairly relaxed then, but he pounced on us as we left the accounts section.”

“So, he might not be as innocent as he makes out?”

“It’s possible. We only have his word for where he was at the time of the stabbing, and he’s conveniently forgotten the name of the ladies he escorted into the dining room.”

Connie put her teaspoon on the saucer. “That’s the same situation as Mr Paul. The only person who confirmed he was in the stockroom was Mr Henson.”

“Good grief, you’re right!” Eliza beamed at her friend. “The police interviewed Mr Paul, and when he said he hadn’t seen anything, Mr Henson agreed. How would he know if he was in the dining room?”

“Good point.” Connie studied Eliza. “Do you remember what Mr Paul looked like? I don’t think I saw him.”

“I didn’t see much of him either, but from memory he was a younger man with… oh my!” Eliza put a hand to her mouth. “He had fair hair. Why didn’t that occur to me sooner?”

“Mr Paul had fair hair?”

“Yes. Blond, I would say.”

“Then that could be him. The man I saw…”

Mr Bell took a sip of his coffee. “What was he doing when you saw him? Running after the others?”

“No … he was just standing away from the others. We made eye contact, but then I fell…”

“You’re sure?” Eliza’s forehead creased. “I was with you the whole time, and he didn’t come over to check how you were.”

“Mr Hemsworth’s dead body probably distracted him.”

“Not if he was the killer. Although if he was, he’d want to get away…”

Archie looked at her. “You said the fair-haired man may have been Mr Edwards from the bank.”

“And he may be, but I’d forgotten about Mr Paul…”

“Then we need to get Inspector Adams to interview Mr Paul. And do it properly this time.”

Eliza sat back in her chair. “If only Connie hadn’t been knocked over, I’d have been more observant. I’ve been making assumptions all the way through that haven’t been true.”

“We don’t know that…”

“I do.” She shook her head. “I should have insisted that someone question Mr Paul and Mr Henson more thoroughly. Checked their alibis, that sort of thing. I imagine they only sent a sergeant to interview them…” She glanced at Connie. “Not that there’s anything wrong with sergeants, but they’re not all as experienced as Sergeant Cooper.”

“No, well…” Connie paused as Inspector Adams approached their table and walked past to the one behind them. He fumbled with the chair as he pulled it from under the table.

“Don’t look now, ladies, but I’m being followed.”

Without moving her head, Eliza shifted her eyes to the door. “Mr Edwards. What’s he doing here at this time of day?”

Connie tried to act naturally. “Which one’s Mr Edwards?”

“The one with the light brown hair. Is he the one you saw in the shop?”

Connie shook her head. “I don’t think so. The man he’s with looks familiar, though.”

Eliza turned to look at her. “The second man…?”

“I would say so. He’s tall too.”

“He is. I hope they’ve not seen us.”

Archie and Mr Bell had their backs to the door, but Archie stood up and shook out his leg.

“What are you doing?”

“I feel a touch of cramp coming on. I’ll be fine in a minute.” He turned as the men drew level. “Excuse me, gentlemen. Cramp. Let me get out of your way.”

Mr Edwards nodded, but stopped as he spotted Eliza. “The lady who’s been prying at the bank.” He looked at the next table. “And the inspector, too. Fancy seeing you both here.”

Eliza regained her composure. “Fancy, indeed. I’d have expected you to be at work, Mr Edwards.”

“I’m here on an errand.”

She raised an eyebrow. “In Harrods?”

“I needed to speak to someone in the accounts department. They bank with us. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’d like to have my coffee without rushing.” He pushed past Archie and took a seat in the far corner of the room.

“The accounts department.” Eliza glanced up at the ceiling. “That’s what this is all about.”

Archie retook his seat. “What do you mean?”

“I think I’ve worked out what’s been going on. Not that I can prove it, but if I could impose on Inspector Adams to ask a few more questions…” She looked around as the inspector swivelled in his seat.

“You’d better tell me what you need to know.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE

The dining room was emptying after luncheon as Inspector Adams rejoined them at the far end of the room and pulled up a chair.

“You were right.”

“Really!” Eliza smiled briefly before her forehead creased. “What happens next?”

“I’ve told the restaurant manager that I need him to close for an hour. I’ve put a sergeant on the door to keep people out and have several constables bringing in the suspects and witnesses.”

“Do we know where they all are?”

“Some are in the shop, as you suspected, and Mr Edwards should be at the bank. I’m hoping our other witnesses, Mr Radcliffe and Mr Ashcroft, are at the addresses on their calling cards.” He checked his pocket watch. “I’ve asked them all to be here for two o’clock, so we don’t have long to wait.”

“Will Inspector Day join us?”

“He will, but he said to start without him. I asked him to check some of the details we’re missing, and it may take a little while.”

“Not too long, I hope. Ah, who have we here?”

They both studied the back of the room, where a police officer ushered Sir Reginald through the tables towards them.

“Good afternoon, Sir.” The inspector stood up and offered him a hand. “I presumed you’d appreciate finding out who our killer is.”

“I certainly would. I didn’t much fancy being next on the list.”

“I’m sure you didn’t. Now, if you’d sit on the far table…” He pointed to his left-hand side as another two men joined him. “Mr Radcliffe and Mr Ashcroft. Would you sit with Sir Reginald?”

The men did as they were asked as Mr Henson and Mr Paul arrived.

“Good afternoon, gentlemen. I’ve selected the middle table for you. Make yourselves comfortable while we wait for our final guests.” He waved forward two officers who were escorting Mr Edwards and two other men. “If you wouldn’t mind hurrying up. The staff would like to open the restaurant again shortly.”

Once everyone was seated, the inspector studied each of the guests. “Thank you for your time today, gentlemen. And ladies.” He nodded to Eliza and Connie. “You all received a paper badge when you arrived. Would you all write your names on the card and fix them to your lapels so we all know who we’re talking to.” He waited as they fiddled with the pins on the back of the makeshift badges. “Are we all done? Splendid. The two gentlemen who arrived with Mr Edwards, may I check your names? Mr Jones and Mr Dyke. Excellent.”

Eliza studied both men. The tall man, and Mr Jones. He was definitely one of them. And we have a left-hander. Excellent.

“Now, you may be wondering why we’re all here. The simple answer is that on Monday two weeks ago, on the ninth of October, a man was murdered in the store, not fifty feet from this dining room, and we need to identify the killer.”

Mr Birch, the store manager, stared at him. “Do you think you have?”

“We believe so, but before we get to the details, we’d like to check some of our facts. If we can start with the incident on the shop floor. I’m aware that some of you were here when it happened, including Mrs Thomson and Mrs Appleton, who have thankfully been able to join us today. Mrs Appleton was hurt in the aftermath of the attack, so they have a particular interest in finding out who knocked her to the floor and whether the same man is our killer.”

“Indeed.” Eliza’s voice was louder than she expected, and she indicated for the inspector to continue.

“Thank you, Mrs Thomson. Now, what you may or may not realise is that in the weeks since that incident, there have been two further murders, both with the same modus operandi. The body of our second victim, Mr Bellingham, was found by Mrs Thomson not far from her home in the village of Moreton-on-Thames. That gives her even more reason to want a resolution to this whole investigation. She was helping with the enquiries into Mr Bellingham’s death when our killer struck again. Or at least he tried to. This time he attacked her with a knife of the same design as the ones used in the previous attacks.”

There was a succession of tutting around the room, but the inspector didn’t stop. “Thankfully, she wasn’t badly hurt, but the same can’t be said for our third victim, Mr Waverley, the bank manager.” He gestured to the middle table. “Mr Edwards here was the unfortunate man who found his body.”

I’m amazed he’s here after all the disappearing he’s been doing.

“So, where do we start? First, I’d like to take you back to the Monday Mr Hemsworth was murdered. Mrs Thomson and Mrs Appleton were strolling across the shop floor, when they heard a commotion a little ahead of them. Within seconds, two men ran from the scene, one knocking Mrs Appleton to the ground, giving her a nasty gash to the head and severe concussion. Fortunately for the police, both ladies saw the man in question and, Mrs Thomson, you believe he’s in the room with us now. Would you mind telling us who he is?”

Eliza stood up and stared at the men on the centre table. “There he is.” She pointed to a man with dark hair, edged with grey. “Mr Jones.”

“Me! No. You’re wrong.” Mr Jones’ eyes were wild as he stared at those around him. “I was working … in accounts.”

The inspector checked his notebook. “I spoke to your supervisor earlier, and he confirmed that you usually take an early luncheon on a Monday, at midday, to be precise, so your colleagues can take their breaks later. That would mean you were anywhere but the accounts department at the time of our incident, which was shortly before a quarter to one.”

“There’s more,” Eliza interrupted as the man stared at her. “I don’t just recognise his physical appearance. It’s his voice, too. Do you sing bass in a Welsh choir, by any chance?”

“Well, yes … but it doesn’t mean I killed anyone.”

“I don’t recall anyone saying you did. As things stand at the moment, you’re merely accused of injuring my friend, although that in itself warrants serious punishment, if you want my opinion.”

Connie shuddered. “He’s got the same wild look in his eyes.”

“Quite.” Eliza looked across to the end table. “Mr Radcliffe, you saw the two men who ran from the scene. Would you agree that one of them was Mr Jones?”

Mr Radcliffe stood up to study the suspect. “I would. Even without the hat.”

“The hat, of course!” Eliza paced across the front of the room. “The fact you were wearing a hat had us puzzled for a while … which was no doubt your plan. Mr Hemsworth was a visitor to the store and so it was inconceivable that he wouldn’t have had one with him, yet there was none to be found near the murder scene. The fact that one of the two men running away was wearing a hat, while the other wasn’t, also felt wrong. Did it mean that one of you was a customer while the other worked for the store so had no immediate need for one? It was only earlier today when my husband came to settle his account that the truth struck me. Both men running from the scene worked here, but you, Mr Jones, had the foresight to pick up Mr Hemsworth’s hat to throw us off the scent.”

Mr Jones’ cheeks coloured as Eliza turned back to Mr Radcliffe.

“In your statement, you said that you saw two men. Is the second man with us today?”

“He is.” Mr Radcliffe nodded towards the centre table. “Mr Dyke.”

“Thank you, Mr Radcliffe.” The inspector smiled and looked at his other witness. “Mr Ashcroft, could you confirm that?”

“He’s the man on the staircase, if that’s what you mean. I didn’t see Jones.”

“So Mr Dyke was the man who ran past the injured Mrs Appleton to make his escape.”

“I didn’t see her.”

“But you admit you’re the man we’re looking for?”

“I didn’t do anything. All I knew was that a man had fallen to the ground and when Mr Jones bolted, I followed him.”

Eliza put her hands on her hips. “Are you trying to tell us you weren’t part of the huddle that surrounded Mr Hemsworth seconds before his death?”

“No. I’d just finished luncheon and was looking for Mr Jones so we could take a walk before going back to work. I’d no sooner joined them than he ran away.”

The inspector stared at Mr Jones. “Can you confirm that?”

Mr Jones glanced at his friend and gave a reluctant nod. “I didn’t kill him, though.”

“As you wish, but if you’re both telling the truth, it means there must have been others with you.” The inspector looked around at his witnesses. “One statement said there was a third man in the vicinity. Would any of you care to point him out?”

Connie tentatively raised her hand.

“Mrs Appleton?”

“T-the man with the blond hair. It’s very distinctive.”

“The blond hair of Mr Paul? The man who was supposed to be in the stockroom at the time of the incident?”

She nodded but grabbed Mr Bell’s arm as Mr Paul jumped up and stepped towards her. “That’s a lie. You were unconscious on the floor. You couldn’t possibly have seen me.”

Eliza’s eyes narrowed. “If you weren’t there, how did you know she was on the floor … or unconscious?”

“I saw her … later.” Mr Paul stopped and spun round as Mr Radcliffe addressed him.

“When I spoke to the police, I’d forgotten I’d seen you, because you weren’t obviously running away, but Mrs Appleton’s right. That blond hair does make you stand out. You were walking from the scene when I arrived.”

“I-I was going for a doctor.”

“I don’t think so.” Eliza looked at the inspector. “He’s lying. His statement said he was in the stockroom and didn’t see anything. Besides, Mr Henson told me they sent an errand boy for a doctor. Not that he arrived. I grew tired of asking where he was, and in the end, my father and I took Mrs Appleton to the hospital on our own.”

The inspector raised an eyebrow. “Mr Paul?”

“I didn’t kill him … and I was in the stockroom. Ask Mr Henson.”

“Mr Henson, yes. Why would you provide an alibi for your colleague if it wasn’t true?”

“I… he… because… He was in the stockroom when I found him … shortly after the body was discovered. He told me he’d been there for several minutes and hadn’t seen the incident.”

“You were repeating a lie, then?”

“I … erm…”

“Let me refresh your memory. According to your statement, you were away from the shop floor at the time of the murder.”

“I was only gone for a moment while I escorted two ladies to the dining room.”

“But you were away for long enough for a man to be murdered? How did you know where Mr Paul was during your absence?”

“He … he was in the stockroom when I left … and I found him there when I returned.”

“So you assumed he’d been there all that time?”

“Yes.”

The inspector studied Mr Birch, the manager. “Is it usual for staff to leave the floor unattended?”

“No. It’s highly unusual. We pride ourselves on serving our customers.”

“Which is what I was doing.” Mr Henson huffed. “I was trying to be helpful.”

“Tell me. Have you seen either of these ladies since?”

“N-no. T-they were from out of town. Yes.” He nodded to himself. “That was why they weren’t familiar with the layout of the store.”

“That’s rather convenient. There are two ladies who could confirm your alibi, but they’ve disappeared into thin air.”

“Now, listen here, Inspector…” Mr Henson sprang to his feet, but Inspector Adams pulled himself up to his full height and stared down on him.

“Sit down, Mr Henson, before I have the handcuffs put on you.”

Mr Henson glared at him, but after a second, he retook his seat.

“Now, where was I?” The inspector looked over to Eliza.

“You were about to suggest an alternative explanation for why Mr Henson falsified Mr Paul’s alibi.”

“Ah, yes.” He stared at Mr Henson. “I was about to suggest that the ladies you escorted to the dining room were no more than a figment of your imagination. Did you promise to provide an alibi for Mr Paul as long as he kept quiet about the fact you were on the shop floor for the whole time?”

“There’s nothing to keep quiet about…”

“All right, let’s try a different tack. Mr Birch found four calling cards in Mr Hemsworth’s top pocket when he was looking for his identity. Did you recognise the names of the men on the cards?”

“No, I told the police at the time…”

Eliza stepped towards him. “While I was still with you, you said you were going to check with accounts to see if they were familiar with the names. Would that have been with Mr Jones or Mr Dyke?”

“Ye— … no. I spoke to one of their colleagues. I don’t remember which one. He told me all four men were customers but couldn’t give me any more information.”

Eliza studied the two cashiers. “Did you see the cards?”

“No.” They both shook their heads a little too vigorously.

“So you’d no idea who the victim was?”

Mr Jones looked at his colleague. “We didn’t even know he was dead. We only found out later when someone told us.”

Eliza cocked her head to one side. “Let me get this straight. You were at the scene when a man was attacked, but when you went back to work, you didn’t ask any questions? Not even to check whether he was all right?”

They both mumbled and shook their heads as Eliza turned to the inspector.

“Might that be because they already knew the answers and didn’t want to arouse suspicion?”

“It’s a possibility. Or perhaps they were too busy.”

“Planning their trip to Moreton, you mean?”

“Precisely.”

CHAPTER FORTY

Inspector Adams surveyed the group in front of him.

“The second murder in this investigation was somewhat surprising, given that it took place in a small village located over an hour away from where we are today. There can be no doubt, however, that it was connected to the other two. The murder weapons and location of the blade in the body were identical in all cases. We also found the same four calling cards in the top pocket of each victim. Why would the killer do that?”

He stopped at the middle table and studied each man in turn. When none of them spoke, he continued. “Given that you were all in the store when Mr Hemsworth died, we must start with the hypothesis that the men named on the cards had upset or angered one or more of you sufficiently for you to want them dead. It doesn’t explain, however, why you used the cards to announce your intended victims, or why you lured Mr Bellingham to Moreton-on-Thames in order to end his life.”

The men glanced at each other before Mr Jones spoke. “You can’t prove it was us. We’ve never even heard of this Moreton place.”

The inspector beckoned for Eliza to join him. “Mrs Thomson may have some news on that front.”

“Thank you, Inspector. What these gentlemen appear to have forgotten, or maybe they don’t actually realise, is that village life is rather different to living in the city. In Moreton, everyone knows everyone else and strangers are usually viewed with uncertainty. Especially when they travel in packs.”

Again, the men glanced at each other, but said nothing.

“We have one particular lady who takes great interest in everyone’s comings and goings. On the day before Mr Bellingham’s body was found, she saw two men walking around the village in smart suits and bowler hats…”

“None of us wear bowler hats.” Mr Jones looked to his colleagues for agreement.

“I don’t suppose any of you have second jobs as gardeners, either, but it didn’t stop three of you coming to the village a week later in your gardening clothes.”

“We did no such thing!”

“Really?” She smiled at Inspector Adams. “Shall we share the evidence with them?”

“Certainly.” He flipped through several pages of his notebook before he held it in front of him and began to read. “On the afternoon of Sunday the fifteenth of October, at approximately half past one, two men appeared in the village wearing bowler hats. They were described as middle-aged, clean-shaven and of similar height. One had grey hair, the other may have been grey or had light-coloured hair.”

The men all turned to Mr Henson, the only grey-haired man amongst them. “Don’t look at me. I wasn’t there. You can check with my landlady.”

Eliza nodded. “I’m sure Inspector Adams will do just that, but at this stage, with the exception of Mr Dyke, any one of you could fit that description.”

“Why not him?” Mr Jones glared at his colleague.

“Because the men reported were of average height, and that’s not something we can say about Mr Dyke.” Mr Dyke gave a smug nod. “As for you, Mr Jones, you’d match the description as well as Mr Henson, if you were wearing a hat that covered the darker parts of your hair.”

“You’ve no proof of that.”

“Not yet, but we’d like to check your appearance when you’re wearing a bowler.”

Eliza handed the inspector a hat they’d borrowed from the men’s department, and he adjusted the orientation before placing it on Mr Jones’ head. It hadn’t been in position for more than a couple of seconds when he pulled it off.

“This is nonsense. I don’t even have a bowler hat.”

“But the store does, and we’ve borrowed that one for our test today, so if you wouldn’t mind being careful with it.”

Mr Jones thrust it back at the inspector. “You can keep it.”

Inspector Adams looked at Eliza. “Did you see his hair before he removed it?”

“I did, and from where I was standing, it appeared that all his dark hair was covered. If he’d like to disprove that, he could put it back on again so we can have a better look.”

“I’ll do no such thing.”

The inspector sighed. “Very well. Mr Edwards, could we see you in the hat, please?”

“You can’t think I travelled all the way to Moreton?”

“That’s what we’re trying to determine, so if you’d be so kind. The best way to eliminate yourself from our enquiries is to show us that your hair is noticeable with the hat on.”

The inspector repeated the exercise with Mr Henson and Mr Paul. “Right, thank you, gentlemen. From that exercise, I would say that any of you could have been in Moreton, although the brightness of Mr Paul’s hair may exclude him.”

Mr Jones sneered. “That doesn’t prove anything.”

“Not yet, but if we turn our attention to the gardeners, we have a little more to go on.” He handed the bowler hat back to Eliza and took a cap from her. “This time, we can safely say that Mr Dyke was amongst those who visited the village.”

Me!” Mr Dyke’s head shot up. “You don’t know that.”

Eliza smiled at him. “A tall man, who matches your description, was seen with this second group of men. We believe that while he was in the village, he tripped over a broken container in my neighbour’s garden, which resulted in a cut to his leg. It was stitched the following day by a doctor in Soho.”

His eyes widened. “No…”

“Is it a coincidence, then, that another man going by the name of Dyke required stitches to a cut?”

“You’re making that up…”

“I’m happy to be persuaded, if you’d let my husband take a look at your leg. He’s a doctor…”

“He can leave my leg alone…”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” Inspector Adams held the man’s gaze. “In the meantime, would you explain what you were doing in the village and why you were trespassing?”

Mr Dyke’s mouth opened and closed several times before he formulated a sentence. “I-I only joined them for a day out…”

“For a day out? Wearing gardener’s clothes? Do I look stupid?” The inspector took a deep breath. “All right. You can make this easy by telling us who you were with, or we’ll drag this out. Either way, we’ll uncover your companions.”

When he failed to answer, the inspector turned to Mr Jones. “We’ve been told that one of the men had grey hair visible from beneath his cap. It would be wise for you to put this on if you want to prove it wasn’t you.”

Mr Jones smoothed down his hair and rested the cap on the top of his head.

Inspector Adams groaned. “Now, put it on properly.”

Mr Jones grunted and shuffled uncomfortably in his seat before he adjusted the cap. The inspector raised an eyebrow at Eliza.

“Enough?”

“I’d say so. I’d like to see Mr Henson try it on, though. And the other two men.”

Once each man had tried it on, Eliza stepped back to the middle of the room. “Again, the only person we can probably eliminate based on that is Mr Paul. Mr Birch, can you confirm that Mr Paul and Mr Henson were working every day last week?”

“Last week?” He studied his employees. “Mr Paul was in every day, but Mr Henson? I’d need to check… He’s had one or two days off recently.”

“Really? That’s interesting.” Her eyes flashed at Mr Henson. “Was it you who joined Mr Dyke on his day out? And if so, who else did you travel with? Perhaps two of you travelled one day and two another, or was it the same men who went twice?” She glanced at Mr Dyke. “If it was the latter, you realise you’re unnecessarily dragging one of your colleagues into this?”

“He’s saying nothing,” Mr Jones snarled at Eliza, causing Inspector Adams to step between them.

“As you’re all being uncooperative, I suggest we move to the death of Mr Waverley. For those who aren’t aware, this murder brings us back to London, specifically to the bank where Mr Edwards works. You found the body, Mr Edwards.”

“Yes, sir.”

“And am I right in thinking you were acquainted with Mr Bellingham as well?”

“Mr Bellingham?”

“Yes, the man we’ve just been talking about. He was a customer of yours at the bank … and a neighbour in Soho.”

“I didn’t know him well.”

“Really? That’s not what I heard. I’ve been told you were running some sort of racket together.”

Mr Edwards’ mouth fell open. “What? Who told you that?”

“You did. In the notebook the police found in your room.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Inspector Adams paused as the door at the far end of the room opened and Inspector Day joined them. “Ah, good afternoon, Inspector. You’re just in time. Mr Edwards was about to deny knowing Mr Bellingham.”

“Was he indeed? It’s a good job I brought this with me, then.” He removed a small notebook from his pocket. “A list of twenty-three names with payments of between one and five pounds alongside seven of them.”

“They … they owed me money.”

“Then why do you have ‘Accounts – Bellingham’ written on the inside cover?” Inspector Day extended an arm to show Mr Edwards the evidence.

“I wasn’t doing anything wrong. If you must know, Mr Bellingham was always looking for new clients, and we had plenty of men with money who came into the bank. All I did was pass him their names, and if any of them became his clients, he’d pay me a commission. I didn’t kill him, though. Why would I when he was doing me a favour?”

“Thank you, Mr Edwards. Finally, we’re getting somewhere.” Inspector Adams looked at Mr Jones and Mr Dyke. “Will you two be as forthcoming?”

They both stared at their feet as the inspector waited.

“All right. Let me drag it out of you. Several days ago, I searched Mr Bellingham’s room and found evidence that you were running a similar operation to Mr Edwards. Would you care to elaborate?”

Mr Dyke stood up, his frame towering over Mr Jones. “I’ve done nothing wrong. It was his idea.”

“So you passed names to Mr Bellingham?”

“No. I made suggestions to Mr Jones. He did the rest.”

“And were you rewarded for your efforts?”

“Half a crown every now and again.” He glared at his colleague. “Nothing like five pounds. I must have been a fool to trust you.”

“You did none of the work. I was the one who met with Bellingham … not that there’s any law saying I couldn’t. It was only right that I took the lion’s share of the payment.”

“Excellent.” The inspector checked his pocket watch. “That should save us some time, but now we’ve established your little schemes, I’d like to go back to the murders, which may or may not be connected to your business practices.”

Inspector Day held up a hand to stop him. “Before you go on, I’ve some news that may help proceedings.”

“Is this from Lincoln’s Inn?”

“Indeed. We’ve suspected for several days that at least two of you had some sort of scheme going with Mr Bellingham. As Mr Edwards correctly pointed out, though, if he was paying you money for information, why would you kill him? There had to be another reason…” His eyes twinkled as he smiled at them all. “And there was. Mr Hemsworth, as I’m sure you’re all aware, was a barrister. As was Sir Reginald before he retired, and who was, the killer kindly informed us, next on his list.”

The men sat tight-lipped as Eliza smiled at him. “You found a case where a disgruntled defendant didn’t get the outcome Mr Hemsworth promised?”

“In a roundabout way, but it wasn’t Mr Hemsworth who let down his client, was it, Sir Reginald?”

There was a gasp around the room as Inspector Day turned to his right. “Would you care to explain, Sir?”

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

Sir Reginald Fitzroy pushed himself to his feet and stepped to the centre of the floor.

“I suppose it’s the least I can do, although I can’t disclose confidential information.”

“A summary will be fine.”

“Very well.” He paused to gather his thoughts. “It goes back to the spring of 1895, and a case that was to be my last. Not that I realised it at the time. It should have been simple enough. A man had been knocked to the ground by a horse and carriage, and instead of stopping, the driver continued on his way, causing head injuries so severe that the man died two days later. I was handed the case in the hope I could reduce the conviction to manslaughter rather than murder. The problem was, at the time, I had a new recruit working with me. Mr Hemsworth.”

Eliza’s eyes widened. “He was still training ten years ago?”

“Oh, no. He’d been called to the Bar years earlier but had begun life working for the prosecution. After a particularly onerous case, he’d had a change of heart and begun working for the defence.”

“Which is why he was working with you?”

“Precisely. It’s a different beast, trying to defend the sometimes indefensible, but I’d been around for long enough to show him the ropes. Anyway, to cut a long story short, things didn’t go according to plan. Mr Hemsworth was still in the mindset of a prosecutor, and when he was in court, and heard the driver’s witness statement, he couldn’t shake the feeling that by reducing the man’s sentence, he’d be returning a killer to the streets of London. Not that he told me any of this, of course. He’d picked up the work easily enough, and was very capable, so I allowed him to make the closing statement for the defence.” There was a pained expression on Sir Reginald’s face. “It would have been brilliant had he been in charge of the prosecution, but alas, it meant that our client was found guilty and was subsequently hanged.”

There was a hush in the room, and Inspector Adams studied the men at the middle table before he asked his next question. “Can you tell us the name of the man Mr Hemsworth condemned to death?”

“I can.” Sir Reginald followed the inspector’s gaze. “It was a Mr Samuel Henson.”

The silence was shattered as Mr Henson jumped to his feet and made a lunge for Sir Reginald. Inspector Day grabbed his left arm and twisted it up his back, causing a knife to fall from his sleeve.

He froze as the knife hit the floor and Inspector Adams bent to pick it up. “Well, well. What have we here? This looks rather familiar.”

Eliza took a step forward. “The same as the knives we found lodged in the sides of the murdered men.”

The inspector glared at him. “Would you care to explain yourself, Mr Henson?”

“He should have been next.” Mr Henson glowered at Sir Reginald. “Samuel Henson was my son and maybe he did hit a man with his carriage, but the imbecile wasn’t even watching where he was going. It was clearly an accident and everyone at the assizes knew it … until Hemsworth did his summing-up. If it hadn’t been for him…” he jabbed a finger at Sir Reginald “…passing the case to an inexperienced novice, my son would still be with us today. Probably with a wife and family of his own.”

Inspector Adams stepped in front of Mr Henson as a sergeant fastened him in handcuffs and leg irons.

“Is that why you killed Mr Hemsworth? As an act of revenge?”

“He deserved it. He was actually proud of himself when Sam was sentenced.”

“That’s not true.” Sir Reginald suddenly looked his age. “He regretted it every single day. As do I. I couldn’t work after that…”

“An apology would have been nice.”

“You’d have got one if I’d thought it would help.”

Eliza walked to Sir Reginald’s side as he retook his seat, then turned to Mr Henson. “Why wait ten years before you took your revenge?”

Mr Henson stared at the floor. “I was too distraught at first, and my wife always talked me out of doing anything stupid, but she died last year. After that, I had nothing to live for…”

“But why kill a man when you were at work?”

“That wasn’t part of the plan. I wasn’t expecting Hemsworth to come to the store.”

“And yet you were carrying a knife and had a set of calling cards ready to put in his pocket.”

“Not the knife.”

Eliza studied him. “That would mean you needed to find one in a hurry. Is that why you invented your mystery ladies, so you had a reason to disappear to the kitchen?”

Mr Henson shrugged but remained silent.

“I’d suggest it was, but why advertise your next victims by leaving their cards? Not that I’m complaining. It helped the enquiry, and thankfully we stopped you before Sir Reginald became your fourth victim.”

Sir Reginald looked up at her when Mr Henson remained silent. “It’s not uncommon for killers to want to be caught.”

“But why? He could have handed himself in to the police if that was what he wanted.”

He shrugged. “He wouldn’t have wanted to be so obvious. By leaving the cards, he may have hoped you’d stop him before he could kill all four of us. I suspect we’ll never know.”

“My wife would have stopped me…” Mr Henson stared out of the window. “Hemsworth just forced my hand.”

“And once you’d killed one man, the rest were easier?” When he failed to respond, Eliza wandered to the men sitting at the middle table. “Am I right in thinking that you were all mixed up in this?”

Mr Jones was on his feet. “He was the one with the knives, not us.”

“Yet you covered up for him on several occasions and two of you even ran from the scene. Why would you do that if you were innocent?”

“All right.” Mr Jones sighed. “Mr Henson’s father-in-law is a major shareholder in the store and Henson had threatened to report us if we breathed a word about the incident. All we wanted was to be out of the way.”

“He couldn’t do that.” Mr Birch looked at the men. “Shareholders have no control over staff. That’s down to me.”

Mr Jones hesitated. “We … we didn’t know. Did we?”

His colleagues shook their heads as Eliza studied them.

“Did he use the same tactic to persuade you to come to Moreton?”

Mr Jones glowered at the salesman. “No. He convinced us we should be worried about you recognising us if you came into the store again and that we needed to deal with you.”

“Deal with me!” Eliza wrapped her arms around herself as she shuddered. “You came to Moreton to harm me and Mrs Appleton, while Mr Henson took care of Mr Bellingham?”

“No. It wasn’t like that. We wouldn’t have harmed you … even if we had found you. The house numbering didn’t make a lot of sense.”

“Something we should be thankful for, but you came back. Twice.”

“It was his idea.”

Eliza glared at Mr Henson. “So, it was you who tried to kill me in my neighbour’s garden? Was it you the second time, too, when you realised you’d failed? Or was it to damage the investigation?”

“I knew I should have finished you off. It would have served you right for poking your nose in…” Mr Henson spat out his words, forcing Archie to his feet.

“Don’t you dare blame her. You came to our village to murder a man we’d never met. Of course, it was going to be investigated.”

Mr Jones sneered at Mr Henson. “She was getting too close, was she?”

“Interfering busybody!”

“It’s no reason to take someone’s life.” Eliza stared at him. “What did Mr Bellingham do to upset you?”

Mr Jones turned back to face the front. “My guess is that he found out that Bellingham was identifying clients in the shop and tried to blackmail him.”

“I did no such thing. If you must know, I wanted him to take me on as a client…”

“In exchange for you keeping your mouth shut? Just because money doesn’t change hands doesn’t mean it isn’t blackmail.”

“It would have been a mutually beneficial arrangement.”

“He refused, didn’t he? Did he tell you he didn’t want your unpaid custom?” Mr Jones shook his head. “What’s the matter with you? Not wanting you as a client is hardly grounds for killing someone.”

“I’m saying nothing more.”

Eliza scanned the faces at the table, then turned to Inspector Day.

“May I look at the notebook with the list of Mr Bellingham’s potential clients?”

The inspector reached into his pocket and handed it to her. “This one?”

“Yes. Thank you.” She flicked through several pages. “Oh my.” Her eyes were wide as she strode across the room to Archie. “Your name’s on the list. Mr Bellingham must have been coming to see us.”

“Where would he have got our details from?”

Eliza turned on her heel. “Mr Henson. I gave him my calling card when I left the store so the police would know how to contact me. Did you give it to Mr Bellingham?”

“What if I did? If the others were making money from him, why shouldn’t I?”

“Is that why you took the money from his wallet? I doubt a man like Mr Bellingham would travel with as little as three shillings and sixpence.”

“He didn’t need it.”

“But why kill him? And why lure him to Moreton in the first place? And force your colleagues to go with you?”

Inspector Adams stepped forward. “My guess is he was going to use them as alibis and blame them if anything went wrong. Like he did for Mr Hemsworth … and Mr Waverley.”

Mr Dyke gasped. “He killed him, too?”

“I would say so, unless Mr Edwards would like to tell me anything different.”

“Don’t look at me.”

“No. Don’t look at him.” Inspector Day stepped forward. “When we were investigating the murder of Mr Waverley, we checked through the bank’s record for any disgruntled customers. He’d previously told Inspector Adams that he regularly reviewed the accounts of customers who like to spend more money than they earn, so we wanted to see if there were any familiar names. That was when we discovered that Mr Henson had run up such an overdraft that Mr Waverley had closed his account.”

Mr Edwards gasped. “You killed him for that? You know very well that Mr Waverley had no choice once he found out you were gambling your money away. He’d been told by the board that they’d no longer countenance your behaviour.”

“He could have given me time. That was all I asked for. Him in his fancy house with his rich wife … he had no idea…”

Mr Birch jumped to his feet. “You’re a disgrace to your profession and this store…”

Inspector Adams held up a hand. “Gentlemen, I think we’ve heard enough. Mr Henson, you’re under arrest for the murders of Mr Hemsworth, Mr Bellingham and Mr Waverley, along with the attempted murder of Mrs Thomson, the breaking, entering and criminal damage to Dr Thomson’s surgery and potential blackmail. Sergeant, take him away.”

CHAPTER FORTY-TWO

The sun temporarily broke through the clouds the following morning as Connie sat in her bedroom and Eliza struggled to neaten the last of her ringlets.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Connie. I give up. I can’t get them straight.”

Connie lifted the hand mirror to check her reflection. “They’re not that bad.”

“But they should be perfect…”

Connie smiled. “After everything we’ve been through this last couple of weeks, do you think Frank will turn me down if a couple of ringlets aren’t straight? He probably won’t even notice once I have my hat and veil on.”

“Of course he won’t. He’s not daft.”

“Did Dr Thomson visit him last night?”

“He did, almost as soon as you’d come upstairs. He was very relieved you were back in one piece, and even more delighted that the wedding could go ahead without the need to worry.”

“He’s not the only one. I’m so glad the inspector took the other men into custody, as well as Mr Henson. At least for today.”

“Well, the police will need to decide if they really were accomplices to murder, or whether it was all Mr Henson. There was nothing illegal in their dealings with Mr Bellingham, although they may be charged with breaking and entering when they were in Moreton. I just feel sorry for Mr Paul, who was dragged into this when he was oblivious to what was going on.”

“And he’ll be busy on the shop floor today. It’s a shame the arrests mean Inspector Adams can’t join us.”

“I’m sure he’ll pay us a visit as soon as he can, but we can’t worry about that now.” Eliza glanced at the clock on the dressing table. “We need to get your dress on. The service starts in half an hour.”

Archie had the carriage waiting for them by the time they arrived downstairs, and he escorted them into the drawing room where Mr Bell was waiting.

“My, you look lovely. Not that you don’t usually…”

Connie’s cheeks coloured. “Thank you. I’ve been waiting to wear this dress for months.”

Archie smiled. “And it was worth the wait.” He looked at Eliza. “Henry and Lady Alice called while you were upstairs. They said they’d see you after the ceremony.”

Eliza grimaced. “I hope Lady Alice isn’t still angry with me.”

“She didn’t look like it. In fact, she was as cheerful as I’ve seen her.”

“Thank goodness. We only have another few months before we go through this for them and we’ve several bridges to rebuild between now and then.”

Mr Hewitt was waiting outside the church when Eliza arrived on Mr Bell’s arm, and he greeted them with a smile.

“Good morning to you both. Don’t you have the bride with you?”

Eliza glanced back over her shoulder. “She’s coming in the carriage with Dr Thomson. We decided it would be more special … and keep the bottom of her dress clean.”

He chuckled. “I can’t promise it won’t get muddy around here. The rain this week has been shocking.”

“She’ll just be thankful it’s dry now. Is Sergeant Cooper here?”

“He was here half an hour ago. And Constable Jenkins. It’s to be hoped nobody has any need of the police for the next hour or so. Not that there are many who aren’t in church. The place is full.”

“At least that means we know where everyone is. We’ve had enough excitement recently to last a long time.”

“I heard you found the man responsible for the body in the pond.”

“We did. He was only one of three people who’d fallen foul of the murderer. It’s been a difficult few weeks.”

“I don’t doubt it.” Mr Hewitt pointed to the end of the church path. “Here’s Mrs Appleton now. Shall we go in, Mr Bell?”

“Certainly.” He squeezed Eliza’s hand. “I’ll see you later.”

The broad smile that hadn’t left Connie’s face all morning had been replaced by a furrowed brow by the time she arrived at the church door. “Is he here?”

“Don’t look so worried. Of course he is. Most of the village are too, according to Mr Hewitt.”

Connie’s face paled. “I hope I don’t forget my words.”

“You’ll be fine. Now…” Eliza looked at Archie “…are you ready to walk Connie down the aisle? She’s waited for this moment for a long time.”

“I’d already be at the altar if the two of you stopped talking.” He grinned as Eliza rolled her eyes. “Take your position. We shouldn’t keep the sergeant waiting any longer.”

The service lasted for over half an hour, with a hymn at the beginning and the end. Once the happy couple had signed the register, Eliza walked on Archie’s arm behind the new Sergeant and Mrs Cooper. Mrs Hartley joined her as the crowd left the church.

“It’s good to see you back from London safely.”

“Thank you. It was quite an eventful day yesterday and one I’ll need plenty of time to tell you about. The one thing I will say is that we found your intruders, and as we speak, they’re in police custody waiting to be charged.”

Mrs Hartley put a hand to her chest. “That’s a relief. I must admit, I’ve been nervous about going into the garden these last few days.”

“There’s no need to be now. You must come for afternoon tea tomorrow. It will only be the two of us, though. I suspect Mrs Cooper will be rather preoccupied.”

“They deserve some happiness after all they’ve been through. What about you? Are you all right?”

“I’ll survive, but Connie being married will take some adjusting to. Especially if they move house.”

“Is that what they’re planning?”

“I don’t know yet. We’ve been so busy this week, nobody’s given it a second thought. Or at least I hope they haven’t.”

“Have the two of you known each other long?”

“Since we were children. Not that we’ve always lived next door to each other. I lived in London for many years before I came back here.”

“Do you miss it?”

“London. Gosh, no. It’s changed since I was there. It’s so much busier for one thing. A couple of days staying at Father’s is enough for me nowadays. What about you?”

“I missed it dreadfully when we first moved here, but since the village fete, I’ve actually enjoyed getting to know people. I wish I’d done it sooner.”

“You had your reasons. And we’ll have time to spend together now this is over…” She paused when there was a tap on her arm.

“There you are. I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

Eliza smiled as Mrs Petty joined them. “I’ve not been hiding, but there are so many people here, it’s difficult to speak to everyone. Are you coming to the Golden Eagle for something to eat?”

“Oh, yes. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I imagine you’ve a lot to tell us.”

“I have, but I’d rather not announce it to the rest of the village. Not today, at any rate.”

“I’ll look forward to a visit then… Oh, here’s your handsome son. It’s a shame I’m as old as I am!” Mrs Petty’s eyes sparkled as Eliza turned around to see Henry and Lady Alice join them.

“Good morning.” Henry kissed Eliza’s cheek. “I thought I’d find you talking. Isn’t the matron of honour supposed to arrange for the confetti to be thrown?”

“Goodness, you’re right. Is everyone out of church?” She stood on her toes to check there were enough people present before she scurried to the front. Connie and Sergeant Cooper were talking to the vicar. “May I interrupt? The guests are ready to throw the confetti and I need you in the centre of a semi-circle.”

“They’re ready to get to the alehouse more like.” Sergeant Cooper beamed at the men standing nearby.

“Get a move on, then.” Mr Pitt laughed at the man next to him.

“It’s all down to you!” Eliza clapped her hands. “As soon as you’re in position, I’ll give the order to throw. Then you can see who can be first to the bar!”

“You heard the lady.” Sergeant Cooper stepped forward as the crowd moved closer. “And the winner can buy me a pint of best ale!”

Within a minute, the confetti was being trampled underfoot and most of the men were on their way down the church path. Eliza embraced Connie as Sergeant Cooper spoke to the few who’d stayed.

“It was a lovely service. I hope you’ll be happy together.”

“We will be. It feels right now.”

“It’s a bit late if it doesn’t. You know I’ll always be there for you, don’t you?”

“Of course I do. I’m not going anywhere.”

“No, but I doubt you’ll be able to go out as much as you used to, not with all the extra housework having a husband entails.”

“We’ll still see each other.”

“I know, but I’m going to miss popping in like I used to.”

“You can still do that when Frank’s at work.”

“And I will.”

Sergeant Cooper returned to them. “Are we ready? Someone else will have had my first pint at this rate.”

Eliza smiled. “You go on ahead. I’ll walk with Archie and Henry.”

Henry and Lady Alice were waiting for them when Eliza eventually dragged Archie away from a conversation with the vicar.

“We thought you weren’t coming.”

“I’m sorry. Blame your father.” They set off towards the Golden Eagle. “I’m glad you could both make it today. How’ve you been?”

“We’re fine now.”

Eliza looked at Lady Alice. “I’m sorry about what happened last week. I’d no idea the police were visiting Lowton Hall.”

“I know. Henry told me and then Father got a letter of apology from the chief constable.”

“I hope there won’t be any hard feelings by the time we get to your wedding.”

Lady Alice smiled and handed Eliza an envelope. “Mother asked me to give you this. I told her that someone had tried to take your life as well, and she said time’s too short to hold grudges. She’d like to meet up with you in the next few weeks so you can talk about plans for the service and wedding breakfast.”

“Really? She wants my input?” Eliza grinned at Archie.

“Read for yourself, but she said you’d been friends for a long time until the incident with Uncle Cyril.”

“We had. What about your father? Is he still angry with me?”

“He’s angry with most people at the moment, so I wouldn’t take it personally.”

“I’ll try not to.”

Henry studied her. “Did you find the murderer you were looking for?”

“We did, but not until yesterday. It was one of the salesmen from Harrods.”

“No!”

“I’m afraid so. It seems we were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“As you always seem to be.”

“It’s not my fault…”

Archie looked down at her as they reached the door of the alehouse. “It’s not your fault that murders happen, but it is your fault that you get so involved.”

“But the police…”

“The police are paid to do a job, however well or otherwise they may do it. I don’t want to lose my wife … and it was too close for comfort this time.”

“It won’t happen again…”

“Eliza, listen to me. You’ve a wedding to help plan and a new life to begin. You may even have a grandchild before long. This has to be the end of the amateur sleuthing. And that’s my final word.”

AUTHOR’S NOTE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

So there you have it. The last book in the Eliza Thomson Investigates series. Connie gets her ‘happy ever after’ while Eliza prepares for a new life ahead. I hope you’ve enjoyed their adventures.

I realised when I wrote The Palace Murder that I needed to make more of the relationship between Connie and Sergeant Cooper. That was confirmed when readers wrote to say they’d like to see Connie get her man. Not that they suggested ending the series, but once they were married, I felt the dynamics between Connie and Eliza wouldn’t be the same. That was why I decided that this was a good place to stop.

That doesn’t mean I won’t ever write about Eliza again. I have an idea to bring her back at some point in the future, possibly after the first world war, but the idea is still very vague and may or may not come to fruition.

For now, I’m thinking of branching out in a different direction entirely. I won’t say any more just yet, in case I change my mind, but keep an eye out for the newsletters or my social media channels, to stay up to date.

For the last time in this series, I’d like to thank my husband Stuart and friend Rachel for reading early drafts and giving me comments. Also, my advanced reader team for their help in finding any last-minute typos, and of course to you, my lovely readers, for making the writing of them worthwhile.

If you enjoyed the book, it would be appreciated if you’d leave a review. Just visit The Calling Card Murders on Amazon, scroll to the review section and click “Write a Customer Review.”

My only plea. Please no spoilers!

Finally, if you’re not sure whether you’ve read all the books, you can see the full list below. Alternatively, turn the page to find details of my historical family sagas.

Best wishes

Val

The Eliza Thomson Investigates Series

A Deadly Tonic (A Novella)

Murder in Moreton

Death of an Honourable Gent

Dying for a Garden Party

A Scottish Fling

The Palace Murder

Death by the Sea

Murder at the Marquee

The Calling Card Murders

A Christmas Murder (A Novella)

ALSO BY VL MCBEATH

Historical Family Sagas Inspired by Family History…

The Ambition & Destiny Series

The full series:

Short Story Prequel: Condemned by Fate

Part 1: Hooks & Eyes

Part 2: Less Than Equals

Part 3: When Time Runs Out

Part 4: Only One Winner

Part 5: Different World

A standalone novel: The Young Widow

The Windsor Street Family Saga

The full series:

Part 1: The Sailor’s Promise

(an introductory novella)

Part 2: The Wife’s Dilemma

Part 3: The Stewardess’s Journey

Part 4: The Captain’s Order

Part 5: The Companion’s Secret

Part 6: The Mother’s Confession

Part 7: The Daughter’s Defiance

To find out more about VL McBeath’s Family Saga’s visit her website at:

https://www.valmcbeath.com/

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