Relic of Light by Sarah Chislon

Author:Sarah Chislon [Chislon, Sarah]
Language: eng
Format: epub

The following morning, Lord Blackburn visited before proper calling hours. “I’ve spoken with the Magister.”

“Excellent.” He’d wasted no time in discharging his errand. I did so appreciate gentlemen who kept their word without dallying or fobbing off the task on others. And that he’d gone to the Magister himself was more than I’d expected. I suppose it paid to be so well-connected. “What did he have to say?”

“He assigned one of his stratesmen to examine the archive and pull what they had that might be relevant to the matter. When I followed up this morning, the fellow said he’d learned that someone had witnessed a man of similar description fleeing the scene of a robbery a few months ago. Of course, many could fit the parameters—brown hair and eyes, middling height. But the witness mentioned specifically the man sustained a leg injury making his escape, which could fit with the limp you noted. He tried to apprehend the fellow, but lost him. He did note that he’d a scar encircling his wrist, however.”

“Now there’s a promising bit of evidence—and one easily tested.” I folded my hands in my lap. “While I wait for information on his references, I shall endeavor to find out if he is, in fact, the robber.”

“And if it provokes him to lash out?”

“Credit me with more sense than to make my purpose obvious,” I said. “Rather, I propose a bit of espionage. I’m not as spry as I used to be, but it should not require physical dexterity to determine his identity.”

“And if he is this thief, then what? Will you inform your society?”

“I think not,” I said slowly. “Our president isn’t inclined to give credence to any of my views, and even if he listened and cast the fellow out, we’d never learn his purpose, which means the society would remain vulnerable to further breach. No, I’d much prefer to prompt him to act in such a way that he’ll be caught in the deed.”

“I’ve no doubt of your ability to maneuver him as you will—but if you bring him to the point of action, you’ll require someone to apprehend him. Might I suggest the involvement of some hired help?”

“An excellent notion. I shall leave that in your hands to arrange as you see fit, but if we are to cover all egresses after hours, then I believe we will need several men.”

“I shall engage them at once.” His eyes gleamed. I’d heard he once was an avid sportsman—perhaps he’d never lost the thrill of the hunt.

Even I must admit the notion of preventing a crime sent fresh strength through my weary limbs. Yes, if we could discover his purpose—and stop him, it would be a job well done.

After Lord Blackburn departed, I summoned Miss Everby, as fresh and efficient as ever, despite the early hour, and we took the carriage to the Antiquary Society. At last, I located my quarry in the keeping room, the chamber adjacent to the private collections. These were not

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