A Sibling's Interference

Chapter Twenty-Three

To my surprise, Sir Harrow did not set out the box for anyone to see. I suspected he meant to use it to surprise someone into giving themselves away. But where had he put the box in the meantime?

There were soon more people in the garden than had been there in decades, I was sure. I mingled with the guests, exchanging pleasantries and trying to gauge any suspicious behavior. As I glanced around, I couldn't begin to guess who might be behind the recent mischief at my home. It didn't seem possible that any of the smiling people hid maliciousness.

Philippa's laughter echoed through the garden, drawing my attention back to her as she chatted with Lady Harrow by the flower beds. They seemed to be getting along quite well, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of relief. This would give her something else to think of and perhaps, finally, she could get over her pique with Talbot.

Soon enough, Sir Harrow caught my eye and gave me a nod. All the guests he had invited must be present. It was time for the hunt to begin.

Clearing my throat, I found a spoon to tap against my glass. "If I can have everyone's attention," I called out. Being the center of everyone's gaze was an uncomfortable position to be in, but at least this time, it was not with any kind of accusation or anger. "I'm sure you've all heard of Pearsend's mystery."

Nearly everyone whispered at that, though I didn't have the vantage point to see each person. No doubt they hadn't expected me to address it directly.

"Well, today, I propose we find a treasure for ourselves," I continued. I held up several sheets of paper. "You are welcome to work in pairs or work alone. Here are your clues. Happy hunting, everyone."

The younger members of the group surged forward with exclamations of delight. They gathered around me, eagerly taking the papers and discussing amongst themselves as they tried to decipher the clues. As I'd suspected, the group began to split into pairs.

Talbot, to my surprise, accepted to partner with Miss Campbell. Philippa watched him walk further into the garden and then turned to Lady Harrow. The Chapman couple set off together.

As the guests dispersed throughout the garden, I noticed Sir Harrow exchanging knowing glances with Ward. I made my way over to them, curious to see if they had any suspicions about the group. "Care to join the search?" I asked.

"I do not need treasure," Ward responded immediately.

"Ah, but think how much it would delight Miss Isabella," Sir Harrow said with a laugh. "She will never forgive you if she hears you had the chance to find her a priceless treasure."

Ward chuckled and shook his head. "I'm sure she will be easily distracted by a tart or some sweet. I know I am a lenient father, but I cannot indulge her in everything."

"No. No one can say you are not a devoted father," the magistrate assured him. He turned his attention to the dispersing guests. "Well. I daresay things are about to get more interesting. What say you, Mr. Bywood?"

"Not too interesting, I hope," I said honestly. "I'm not sure I'm prepared for that."

"Nonsense." Sir Harrow made a vague gesture. "I'm certain our plans have accounted for everything."

Timmons appeared from where he'd managed to blend into the edge of the gardens. He carried the prize box to the table that held the punch bowl and set it down. With a nod, he moved back to where he'd been keeping watch.

How long had he been working for Sir Harrow, and what kind of cases had he been involved with? The man had a remarkable ability to be unseen until he was needed.

"You had best go keep an eye on your guests," Sir Harrow told me. "They may become a little zealous in their search. John and I will keep watch out here. We wouldn't want our prize to disappear before it has served its purpose."