The Masked Heart by Karla Darcy

Author:Karla Darcy [Darcy, Karla]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2012-08-10T21:00:00+00:00

Chapter Nine

Drew stood on the sidewalk in front of Whites, oblivious to the pedestrian traffic that circulated around his immobile figure. His face was a study in boredom while his mind was focused inward as he puzzled out the origin of his discontent. He had attempted to while the day away with a game of cards. His concentration had been divided but, despite this fact, he had won, taking little pleasure in the windfall. He had always been a man of action, addressing a problem until he was able to work through a solution. And now he was ready to find answers to the questions that plagued him.

He nodded his head at the course of action he had mapped out and tipped his beaver hat back on his head with the knob of his walking stick. Looking around to get his bearings, he started off on a brisk walk through the city until he arrived at the offices of Upton and Sons. He presented his card to the solicitor's assistant who scurried away with great importance. Drew rocked back and forth on the soles of his boots, humming softly under his breath. There was a slight smile on his generous mouth and his green eyes sparkled with mischief at his plan. When the assistant returned, holding the gate open for him to enter the inner sanctum of the Upton domain, Drew flipped him a coin for his trouble.

"Come in, Lord Farrington. Come in." Wesley Upton fluttered around his visitor with the anxiety of a mother hen. "Try this chair. I think you will find it quite comfortable."

With an arch nod of approval, Drew sat down in the comfortable leather chair Wesley pushed forward. The portly little man returned to the chair behind the desk, his fingers fumbling to neaten the pile of papers on the surface. Once he had established order, he beamed across at Drew, his bald head shining a cherubic pink and his spectacles winking in the light from the window.

"To what do I owe this pleasure, Lord Farrington?" Wesley asked.

"Not that it is not always a welcome sight to have you visit."

Drew had done business with Mr. Upton on various occasions and he hoped to trade on the man's familiarity. "I have need of some information, Wesley, and I was assured that I might apply to you." He lowered his voice to a confiding tone, delighted when he saw the glint of interest in the solicitor's eyes. "My brother Robert is planning to marry. Lovely child and just right for Robbie. Naturally entre nous , since there has been no formal announcement."

"I understand perfectly, Lord Farrington." Wesley placed a pudgy finger beside his nose and winked roguishly across the desk. "This room is very like a mausoleum. Sealed forever in silence."

Drew was not sure he liked the allusion but trudged ahead. "I have spoken to Lady Haydie Yates and she has given your discretion high praise. She mentioned you with great warmth." The little man preened much

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