The Case of the Unsuitable Suitor: A 1920s Historical Cozy Mystery by Magda Alexander

Author:Magda Alexander [Alexander, Magda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Hearts Afire Publishing
Published: 2024-10-30T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 7

A SHIFT IN TACTICS

That evening, the princess still must have been under the weather, for she was not present at Farringer’s home. No mention was made of her when he greeted me in his drawing room, nor did I ask. I was more concerned over whether either Robert or I would be recognized. As it turned out, I had nothing to fear. None of the guests were familiar to me.

The first couple Farringer introduced us to were Lord and Lady Brightmore. While the husband appeared to be in his late forties, his wife was much younger, in her late twenties would be my guess. Her dismissive glance revealed she thought little of me. We were next introduced to Felix Larkspur who was there with a Mrs. Polin on his arm. Her attire was not exactly comme il faut. Quite the contrary. Her décolletage was quite low cut, revealing much more of her abundant charms than was proper. And her maquillage appeared to have been spackled on rather than carefully applied. After an excruciating fifteen minutes during which cocktails were served, supper was announced.

The numbers were odd—four gentlemen to three ladies. A circumstance mother would never have allowed. But then Farringer did not seem to be overly concerned with etiquette as he sat me next to him with Robert to my right. Another faux pas. Since Lady Brightmore held a title, she should have occupied that place of honor. He had the awful Mrs. Polin seated at the other end of the table with Larkspur by her side and Lady Brightmore and Lord Brightmore next to him.

Somehow, conversation flowed smoothly as the meal progressed, although much of it was not to my liking. Lady Brightmore and Mrs. Polin engaged in town gossip, something I abhorred. Not that I would have had time to engage as Lord Farringer was claiming all my time. Much in the manner of earlier that afternoon, he praised my manners, my dress, and my looks, while leaning close to me. I sensed more than saw Robert’s stiffened posture. But he said nothing about Farringer’s words. Once the meal ended, Mrs. Larkspur suggested the ladies retire to the drawing room, leaving the men to their port and cigars.

This afternoon, Robert and I had discussed the strategy we would employ. We’d determined this would be the best time for me to do a spot of investigation. I remained in the drawing room for only a few minutes. And then, claiming I needed to visit the restroom, I excused myself.

A hall clock struck eleven as I scurried through the corridors of Farringer House. As agents had reconnoitered the layout of the mansion, I knew exactly where I was headed—the library. Apparently, that was where Farringer kept his business records. Thankfully, I encountered no one on the way there. With barely a click of the door, I made my way into the room.

For a few moments, I stood by the entrance, getting the lay of the land. A fireplace had been lit, providing enough illumination so I could see into the handsomely appointed room.

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