Page 74 of The Unfortunate Debutante
“As well as they should,” Simeon remarked. “The constables treated the people unfairly.”
“It’s rumored that the Anti-Corn Law rebels are going to rally again, but this time, at Grange Gardens,” the magistrate said.
Pembrooke sipped his drink. “I am not overly concerned. Grange Gardens, much like Ranelagh, is a luxurious pleasure garden and has always offered a myriad of entertainments in the form of musicales, fireworks, and balloon rides. Most people cannot afford the ticket prices to enter the gardens.”
“I don’t believe the Anti-Corn Law rebels intend to pay to gain entrance,” Justice Ford drawled. “Most likely, they will descend upon the venue and fill the extensive walks, private arbors, and Chinese pavilions. They’re trying to rally support for their cause, and they will overwhelm the pleasure garden.”
Knitting his brow, Simeon commented, “Riots are occurring all over Britain in response to the passing of the Corn Laws. Why is Lord Revett targeting the Anti-Corn Law rebels?”
“Because they’re more organized than the other groups,” the magistrate explained. “They’re also arguing for Parliamentary reform. Their numbers are vastly growing, and that is disconcerting to Parliament.”
“They should be more concerned that people are starving because of the high cost of grain, famine, and chronic unemployment,” Pembrooke muttered.
Justice Ford gave Pembrooke a stern look. “Need I remind you that we are officers of the law? We uphold the laws, regardless of our personal convictions.”
“Understood, sir,” Pembrooke said.
“I disagree,” Simeon proclaimed, placing his empty snifter on the table.
“You what?” Justice Ford shouted.
Ignoring the magistrate’s heated gaze, he pressed forward with his thought. “I’m beginning to see things differently, and I refuse to proceed blindly anymore. I have sat in the House of Lords and have heard both sides of the arguments. The Corn Laws only benefit the landowners, and not the people. I intend to become more vocal on the matter in Parliament.”
“Are you quitting as a Bow Street Runner?” the magistrate asked.
“I intend to work this case.”
“But after that?”
Running his hand over his chin thoughtfully, Simeon answered, “I haven’t thought it through completely yet. However, my priorities are beginning to shift.”
“Is it because of the beautiful Miss Pearson?” Pembrooke asked innocently.
“Perhaps, but not in the way you’re thinking,” he answered honestly. “Miss Pearson and I are just friends, but she has offered me a unique perspective of my burdens.”
Lowering his drink to his lap, Pembrooke inquired, “Why is Miss Pearson your friend, but I am not? We’ve worked together for nearly five years.”
“Because I like Miss Pearson,” he paused, “and I barely tolerate you.”
Pembrooke chuckled. “Well said, Wentworth.”
“You two are fools,” Justice Ford said. “May we focus on the case?” When they both nodded, he continued. “We need to keep Miss Pearson safe until this warrant goes away.”
“Agreed. Lord Downshire intends to move her to an undisclosed location,” he shared.
“Good,” the magistrate responded with a bob of his head. “And I want you both at Grange Gardens to help keep the peace during the rally.” His eyes narrowed. “Do not engage the people unless they give you probable cause. We don’t want another riot on our hands.”
“Just to clarify,” Pembrooke hesitated, smiling, “you would like me to work with Wentworth as partners on this case.”
Justice Ford gave him an annoyed look. “Didn’t I just say that?”
“I just wanted to hear it out loud,” Pembrooke replied, giving Simeon a smug smile.
Simeon grunted. “I work better alone.”
“That’s rubbish,” the magistrate contended. “Regardless, we need to keep a close eye on the Anti-Corn Law rebels and an even closer eye on Justice Keats and his barbaric constables.”
“Understood,” Simeon replied. “I wouldn’t put it past them to do something underhanded again to stop the rally.”
