Saddled with Death by Irene Sauman

Author:Irene Sauman
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: amateur sleuth, australian mystery authors, cozy mystery, historical mystery
Publisher: Jakada Books
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

“Now tell me, exactly what has been happening at Nettifield,” Eleanor said, as Emma handed her grandmother a cup of cocoa and took a seat in front of the fire in her room. Floss was curled up on her doggy bed, bright eyes watching them both. Was the little dog deciding which of them she would favour in the days to come?

“Is George really under suspicion of killing his brother?”

“Well, yes, but there are other possibilities,” Emma said. She told her grandmother about the visitors and their behaviour toward one another, seeing George that night, Vernon’s injuries, the search for his cane and for evidence of intruders. Eleanor didn’t comment but just listened, nodding her head from time to time.

“Mrs. Mac insisted I investigate because she needs to know if Mr. Mac had anything to do with it,” Emma said at the end.

“I can well understand why poor Margaret is worried,” Eleanor said. “But I don’t really understand why George would send you home, even if Dora is staying on.”

Emma crossed her fingers. “Mr. Mac doesn’t want me investigating Vernon Appleton’s death, Grandmama, even for Mrs. Mac. He’s probably glad Mrs. Appleton offered to stay and manage the household as it gave him an excuse to be rid of me.” None of which was untrue, just not the whole story.

Eleanor sighed and rubbed her forehead. “So how is Margaret? I hope she isn’t upset about your leaving?”

That brought a pang of dismay. “I didn’t see her.” Eleanor’s eyebrows lifted. “She was asleep. I didn’t want to disturb her. Bea will explain to her.”

“What is it you aren’t telling me, Emmaline?” Eleanor asked quietly. “You seem to have rushed off. I can’t imagine George insisting on you leaving immediately.”

Emma found herself fighting back tears as the scene in the Nettifield kitchen imposed on her mind again.

“It just got too much, Grandmama.” She brushed a hand across her eyes. “None of them want me asking questions. Tommy Waradjee says there weren’t any intruders. They all know that, but Mr. Mac doesn’t want to hear it because it means it was one of them killed his brother. They’re trying to cover it up, close ranks, and I’m the odd one out. I’m not family so I had to go.”

She knew it sounded as if George had indeed insisted she leave right away, but she had no doubt he was glad to see the back of her.

“Oh, dear. Poor Margaret. I suppose it’s for the best, child. Margaret needs a peaceful household around her right now and you asking questions wouldn’t be helping that.”

“But she asked for my help, Grandmama.”

“Mmm?”

“I did mention to Bea that you and Mother would most likely visit with Mrs. Mac very soon. Mr. Mac can’t object to my being there if I visit with you. There’s more I can investigate.”

“We are planning to visit,” Eleanor said thoughtfully. “But I think Rose and I will go alone, Emmaline. It would seem your presence has stirred up enough animosity and it would be best if you kept out of it now.

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