5. Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Strange Lady Comes To Call

The group designated the day after the big Spring Ball to meet again. Frank still “officially” worked with the Bow Street runners in the apprehension of the murderer of Glenda, but the three horsemen working to find Glenda’s daughter knew Frank to be integral due to his investigative expertise. Frank had worked closely with Lord Claymont when Lady Muriel had been kidnapped and for Fred when he needed to have a steward from his estate in Bristol investigated.

They all congregated at Fred’s St. James townhouse. As he led them into his drawing room. “Our Spring ball failed to accomplish anything on the initials, but I’m curious as to whether you have collected anything of any import.” The death of Glenda was secondary to Fred’s quest to find Glenda’s daughter. Understanding the murder had to be Frank’s priority, Fred wanted any information he may have collected on his end.

If he was honest with himself, Fred felt guilty for having used Glenda's sexual talents, then immediately afterward, using her as the target for his deprecating humor. Unsure of his true motive – he wanted to avenge the poor woman.

Before Frank answered, Fred wanted to take care of the important issue first. “Scotch all around?” He inquired as he picked up a salver to place the drinking glasses and decanter on.

“Looks to be ‘aye’ all around. Bring it on. Frank is bursting at the seams to tell us something.” Henry noted.

Fred carried the salver over and placed it on the low table, in the center of a circle of comfortable wingback chairs. “What is the news you have?” Fred asked as he poured healthy shots of amber into the glasses.

“That had better be my scotch.” Jonathan Herbert threatened, knowing full well it would never be anything but the scotch he imported and sold to retail markets. Fred shook his head at John as he sat down.

“Now, what is this news?” Fred asked again. John and Henry scooted closer to the edge of their chairs.

“Martha contacted me yesterday. Her note requested I come right away, unsure how long she would be able to withhold the information from the Bow Street runners. So, I met with her.” He took a sip of his scotch. “God, that’s good stuff.” He took another sip. “She told me that a woman came and asked for Glenda. Martha, being savvy, asked who wanted to know and what did she want with Glenda.” He took another sip. “The woman told Martha that she had not received ‘the payment’ yet and it would not bode well for Stevencia. Martha asked the woman how much Glenda owed. The woman said that Glenda had to pay four pounds a week and Glenda failed to pay last week. She threatened to take ‘dire measures’ if she failed to pay her by Friday. The woman added, ‘Remind her how brutal Marcus can be if she fails to pay’. When Martha asked if Glenda knew how to contact the woman. She told Martha not to worry. Glenda ‘knew what to do’.”

“The woman visited two days ago?” Fred attempted to determine whether the woman intended to return soon or in another week. “I think it might be best to see Martha soon. Tonight.” Fred wanted input from the group.

“I’m leaning toward tonight. Glenda had been talking to Martha about a woman Glenda knew. She wanted a job at Venus . I’m curious to find out whether this girl showed up to speak with Martha.” Frank’s years of investigative work would help immensely in finding Glenda’s daughter.

“Good idea. Hell, if we all go, Frank and John can speak with Martha and Fred and I can enjoy the company of Blackwood and Duff if they are there.” Henry said in jest. Blackwood practically resided at Venus .

“Let me see if I can get Cook to fix a meal for us. We can have a few more drinks, then make our way to Venus .” Fred wanted to go to White’s , but knowing Frank would not be allowed, he thought it better to not even mention it.

“Certainly sounds good to me.” Frank was tired of pub food.