The Portrait by Hazel Statham

Author:Hazel Statham [Statham, Hazel]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2013-01-10T22:22:00+00:00

The occupants of Berry House kept country hours and breakfasted early. When Jennifer arrived at the breakfast table, her pale countenance bore evidence that she, too, had spent a sleepless night.

"My dear, you look quite worn," said Judith with some concern. "Do you think yourself up to journeying today? Would it perhaps be wise to delay your return until the morrow?"

"No, we shall go today," replied Jenny, making no effort to attempt the meal set before her. Turning to Phillip, she asked, "Where's Edward? Is he not yet down?"

"He has been down and is gone," replied Phillip, oblivious to the edge in her voice. "He rose quite early and asked if he could have the use of one of my horses. Apparently he's left something of value at the last inn you visited and felt the need to retrieve it immediately."

"I would have gone with him, but he wouldn't have me," said a disappointed Freddie. "Said I was to go with you to Flora's."

"Did he leave any message for me?" asked Jenny, unease sounding in her voice.

"Only that he'll join you at Ravensby as soon as he's able," replied Phillip. "Sinclair's a strange fellow, if you ask me. He was quite curt this morning and abroad so early. It was barely dawn when he came to my door."

"Did he say what it was that he'd lost?" she asked, a small frown creasing her brow.

"Only that it was of value, though what it could be, I cannot think. If it was so valuable, why bring it on such a harebrained journey?"

"Will he return to Berry House?"

"No. He said he would have the horse returned to me and leave directly for London by post chaise."

Jenny rose from the table. "If you will excuse me, I will make my preparations for the journey," she said, a slight tremor in her voice, of which only Freddie seemed aware.

"We leave in an hour. Be ready," called Phillip to her retreating figure.

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