Castle Shade by Laurie R. King

Author:Laurie R. King [King, Laurie R.]
Language: eng
Format: epub, pdf
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
Published: 2021-06-08T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twenty-seven

It was late when Holmes finished with the Times correspondent, but if Roumania was like other countries that sweltered through the day, its hours of business would extend past the usual. Broder had given him a telephone number, before they shook hands and the next informant slipped into his chair; however, Holmes took off his jacket and tie before settling down to the telephone. He expected his pursuit to be long, convoluted, and possibly fruitless until the next morning.

To his surprise, a woman’s voice answered the number on the third ring.

He cast about for the Roumanian words he needed, then decided to try English. “Please, I am looking for Prince Barbu Știrbey.”

“Moment please,” she said, followed by murmuring in the background.

“This is Știrbey,” said a man.

“Good evening, Sir, I apologise for disturbing you at this hour. My name is Holmes, I was asked by Queen Marie to look into some—”

“The troubles at Castle Bran, yes. What can I do for you?”

“I should like to speak with you, if you are available.”

“Is it urgent that we speak tonight? If not, perhaps you would join me on the train to Sinaia in the morning. We would have privacy, and plenty of time.” And just as Holmes was about to point out that privacy was exactly the last thing they would be given on the train to Sinaia, the Prince added, “I have a private car.”

“I see. It is true that I intended to return to Brașov, but I need to be on the first possible train.”

“The earliest trains make many stops. The 7:20 leaves later but arrives earlier, particularly if you are continuing on to Brașov. Tell the attendant you want the royal waiting room, or my car if it is closer to the time. We can take our breakfast on board.”

“Thank you, Sir, I will. And again, my apologies to you and the lady for telephoning so late.”

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