Page 76 of A Pure Lady for the Broken Duke

“Then what exactly can I do for you?”

Thomas and George laid out their plans for the horses, with an emphasis on how productive they thought their plan would be, and the fact that they already had one investor.

Thomas then said, “As you can see, we have put a lot of work into this project, and we already have two horses, with two more we hope to acquire shortly. We are looking to enter as many races as possible at the start of the racing season next March. We have an excellent trainer, and George is very knowledgeable about both horses and the world of racing. We have every expectation of being successful.”

“I see,” Mr. Hargrove said, without a great deal of enthusiasm.

“We were hoping the bank could loan us this amount.” And Thomas gave him a paper with a list of several numbers. “The first amount is the additional funds we need to raise, and the other figures are… amounts we could accept but would require additional funding from other sources.”

George spoke up, “Is this something the bank would be prepared to loan?”

“One moment,” Mr. Hargrove said standing and taking all the papers with him. “Let me confer with one of my colleagues. I shall be back shortly.” He started to leave but stopped. “Might I offer you gentlemen some refreshment in the meantime?”

“We are fine, thank you,” Thomas responded.

Mr. Hargrove left the office.

“What do you think?” George asked. “He seems less than enthusiastic.”

“Hmm. Banks are much more cautious. The world of racing holds less of an allure for them than for an adventurous investor. I think we are going to have to look elsewhere.”

Shortly, Hargrove returned with a less than promising expression.

“I am sorry, Gentlemen, but this is far too risky a project for our bank. We are going to need to pass on this.”

“I am, of course, disappointed,” Thomas said. “And after our loyal business these many years, I expected a more positive response.” He was not going to let this go without letting the banker know he was dissatisfied.

Mr. Hargrove raised a finger, “However, personally, I am a great aficionado of the sport of kings.” He turned to see if any of his colleagues might be within hearing and said quietly, “I would be interested in investing—a modest amount—if the return is adequate, of course.”

Thomas appeared to be thoughtful before replying, “We might consider such an arrangement. As you can see, we have a twenty percent commitment already. What percentage were you thinking?”

Hargrove stroked his chin. Imightbe able to do thirty percent under the right conditions.”

“And what would those conditions be, Mr. Hargrove?”

“I was thinking… if one of the new horses were to be named after my wife… well. We might have a deal.”

“And your wife’s name?”

“Florabell.”

Thomas winced inwardly, but said, “A lovely name. I feel certain we could accommodate your wish,” he said and cast a quick glance at George who nodded. “But it would need to be a filly.”

Mr. Hargrove smiled broadly. “Excellent.” He tamped the papers and handed them back to Thomas. “Have you drawn up investor papers yet?”

“We have but will have a copy made with your name and your share and will get it to you before we leave London.”

Mr. Hargrove added, “And I have the names of two other gentlemen you might approach who might be interested in investing.” He wrote on a paper and handed it to Thomas. “Just say I sent you. I know they will receive you.”

“You will not be disappointed,” George said.

“Your Grace… Mr. Edgerton,” Hargrove said with a nod.

* * *

Thomas was ushered into the Alderman’s drawing room by the butler. Another couple was seated by the fire. They stood when he approached them.

“Thomas Haddington, the Duke of Pemberton,” he said in greeting.