The Secrets of Palmerston House by Phillipa Nefri Clark

Author:Phillipa Nefri Clark [Clark, Phillipa Nefri]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: secrets, cottage
Publisher: Phillipa Nefri Clark
Published: 2018-11-30T08:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twenty-three

“What is so important about the trunk?” Martha lowered herself onto her seat, eyes troubled. “And what does it have to do with the attic window?”

Thomas and Christie stared at each other.

“Somebody speak please.”

“Sorry, Auntie. I have no idea why the trunk matters to this man, but assuming it does, would he really go to the trouble of climb—”

“Anyway, it might be better to go for a drive to Green Bay library. In case he’s telling the truth.” Thomas shook his head at Christie.

“Thomas Blake, I am not some child to protect! You think he was in the cottage, don’t you both?” Martha turned to Christie. “Finish what you were saying.”

“Martha—”

“No, I’m quite able to understand this may be some kind of problem and would much rather know than have an unpleasant surprise. Did he climb up to the attic, through the window, and come down through the hatch?”

Christie shrugged. “If he did, he certainly didn’t touch anything that I am aware of. The trunk is still in the dining room. Do you remember anything else about it? Is it valuable?”

“It is old and unique. But why wouldn’t he take it, dear?”

Why indeed? None of this made any sense to Christie.

“What are you thinking?” Thomas began pouring tea whilst Martha watched him, still looking upset.

“I might go and see George. Find out if this man has asked him about the trunk and what George knows about it. Afterwards, I’m not sure. Let’s see what comes of it first.”

“I’ll come with you.” Thomas started to stand.

“No, why don’t you stay and spend some time with Martha? I don’t like it when you two are at odds.”

“We’re not. You two go together and I’ll clean up here. Then take a walk in the garden.” Martha reached for Thomas’ hand with a smile. “Go on.”

Thomas leaned over and kissed Martha on the lips. “Whatever you say, bride.”

***

Bernie peered over the edge of the cliff at the sea swirling at its base. The wind was picking up and he braced himself against its buffeting. His rope remained tied to one of the bushes, neatly coiled in the undergrowth. Like a snake waiting to strike. Not long now and he’d be the snake. Unnoticed by his prey until it was too late.

He laughed.

From somewhere above him, the wretched dog barked. Bernie slipped back through the bushes and leaned against the rock face. Why couldn’t it stay away? For that matter, the whole damned town should leave him alone. He clenched his hands into fists. The only one who’d shown him any friendship was Elizabeth, but now this Angus person was here, even she was less accommodating. Time was against him.

There were no more sounds from the top of the cliff, so Bernie went back through the bushes. From here he could just see the top of the cave. How much easier to access by boat, if only the tides would cooperate. High tide at dusk or dawn would be perfect, times when fewer people would notice a small boat than midday.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.