Page 60 of The Unfortunate Debutante
Tears came to Emma’s eyes. “Have you ever felt like you were supposed to do more with your life?”
“I know that feeling well,” Rachel assured her.
Swiping a tear that ran down her cheek, Emma explained, “I’m grateful for everything you’ve done for me, I truly am, but I feel as if I am not doing enough to help others.” She pressed her lips together for a moment. “I have no doubt that people in my village are suffering because of the Corn Laws. Am I to sit by and do nothing?”
Rachel shook her head. “No, of course not. You must do what your conscience dictates.”
Emma turned towards Simeon. “What I don’t understand is why those constables were using force during a peaceful demonstration.”
“I agree,” Simeon replied, “and I intend to call on Justice Keats after this meeting to discuss just that.”
Luke let out a loud sigh. “Regardless, you can’t keep sneaking out and attending these meetings. Lockhart is a madman, and he intends to make you his.”
A knock came from the opened window. “I believe that’s my cue,” a man said from outside the window. He climbed through the window. “I’ve been waiting to announce myself.”
“What is the meaning of this?” Luke demanded.
Rising, Simeon cleared his throat. “Lord and Lady Downshire, allow me to introduce you to Officer Edwin Pembrooke.”
“We’ve already met. Pembrooke was the bloke who notified me that Emma was being carted off to prison,” Luke informed him.
“Indeed,” Simeon replied. “However, I am as confused as you are about why he’s in your study.”
“Because I found some information about Lockhart that you both will find beneficial,” Mr. Pembrooke said, removing a few folded pieces of paper from his blue jacket pocket.
Luke eyed him with annoyance. “May I ask why you were skulking outside my window, Officer Pembrooke?”
“I was not skulking, Lord Downshire,” Mr. Pembrooke replied, amused. “When I arrived at the estate, I heard shouting, and I came around to ensure everyone was unharmed.”
Pressing his fingers to the bridge of his nose, Luke remarked, “You’re an imbecile.”
Mr. Pembrooke grinned. “I’ve been called much worse.” He turned his gaze towards Emma. “And you must be Miss Emma Pearson.”
She tilted her head towards him. “I am. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Pembrooke.”
“I had the privilege of watching you jab that constable in the throat. I must admit, I was impressed,” Mr. Pembrooke stated, respect in his tone. “Have you considered applying as a Bow Street Runner?”
“Under no circumstances will my ward ever be a Bow Street Runner!” Luke exclaimed.
Mr. Pembrooke winked at her. “I understand.”
“What do you want, Pembrooke?” Simeon growled.
Emma turned her gaze towards Simeon, surprised by the anger resonating in his voice. Weren’t they friends?
Holding up the papers in his hand, Pembrooke shared, “Lockhart is not a good man.”
“Thank you for that,” Luke drawled. “Now get out of my home.”
Pembrooke smirked. “There’s more.” He unfolded the papers. “Lockhart is not working in London at any law office, nor is he staying in any legitimate housing.”
“Then where is he living?” Rachel asked.
“Most likely at a disreputable public house,” Pembrooke answered. “A man fitting Lockhart’s description has been hiring ruffians from the rookeries, and my sources revealed that the sum is quite generous.”
Emma frowned. “Where is Peter getting all this money?” she asked.
“That’s an excellent question, Miss Pearson,” Pembrooke said, smiling, “and I’m afraid I don’t have the answer. However, I do urge you to remain diligent about your safety.”
