The Stanforth Secrets by Jo Beverley

Author:Jo Beverley
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Penguin USA, Inc.

10

CHLOE HAD TO ADMIT that Humphrey Macy appeared to be exactly as he claimed, and very unlike a spy-catcher. He was gushingly polite to her and doting toward Belinda, who had just arrived back at the Hall.

“My dear, dear Belinda,” he said, retaining her hand. “I do hope you will permit me to address you so. I grew so accustomed to poor George talking of his lovely Belinda . . .” He sighed. “What a sad house this has been, but destined for happier days now, I’m sure.”

Mr. Macy, man-about-town and intimate of royalty, was undeniably possessed of an air of elegant sophistication. His spindly legs, topped by an ample paunch, had been given a veneer of manliness by excellent tailoring and handsome, gleaming Hessian boots. His hair was an unlikely shade of chestnut, brushed up to give its sparsity a more youthful fullness. Chloe had long suspected he used rouge on his sallow skin, but if so, she had to confess, it was done with subtlety so one could never quite be sure.

He turned his easy smile on Justin and Chloe, and Belinda retrieved her hand. To Chloe, she did not seem overwhelmed by Mr. Macy’s attentions. In fact, she looked worried, as well she might. If she had been responsible for the loss of the papers, then killed her colleague, the arrival of a government official must be terrifying. Once, Belinda glanced toward the door as if thinking of making an escape, but then she appeared to recollect herself and was composedly attentive to her suitor.

Chloe’s suspicions immediately seemed ridiculous. What could account for the Massingers’ well-educated daughter suddenly turning her hand to treason? Where was the advantage in it? Frank might dabble in something illegal if it promised a quick profit and escape from servitude, but would Belinda assist him? Love was a powerful persuader, but such strength of devotion did not mesh with Belinda’s ambitious marriage to George.

The welcoming of Mr. Macy had to be cut short, as it was time for everyone to prepare for the dinner. Chloe took a moment to ensure that all the arrangements were going forward smoothly, and that an extra place would be laid at the table, then hurried to make her own toilette. For a great many reasons, she was determined to be at her best for this first formal entertainment in so long a time.

She had already chosen her gown, a spectacularly elegant silver gray satin, with an overdress of pink spider-gauze woven with silver thread. The bodice was cut very low and wide, showing her shoulders to advantage. The gown was perhaps a little fine for a country dinner. Yet, the simplicity of its lines meant it would pass muster, and she would wear only the simplest jewels. The gown had never been worn before. She had found it a little too mature in style. Now, nearly two years after its making, it felt exactly right.

Agnes dressed her glossy dark hair high in a knot and circled it with a silver filigree bandeau.

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