Page 32 of A Whisper at Midnight

Beryl opened her mouth, then closed it again, pressing her lips together. “I don’t have evidence. Isn’t it your job to find it?”

“Yes,” Hadrian said quickly. “However, Tilda can only do her job with the information that is available to her. Your belief that your husband stole your jewelry doesn’t particularly help her in any meaningful way.” He spoke kindly, and Beryl nodded.

“I’ve told her everything I know,” Beryl said.

“Is it possible someone else stole the items?” Hadrian asked. “Perhaps one of your retainers? I hate to make that suggestion, but I think you must consider it.”

Beryl’s gaze flew to him, her eyes widening. “None of them would do such a thing.”

“What about the maid who left your household suddenly?” Tilda asked.

“Farrow would not have stolen from me.” Beryl looked upward, her features creasing with concentration. “I just realized that nothing has gone missing since she left.” She sounded defeated, which Tilda could understand. It would be terrible to think someone you trusted had stolen from you. It might also be that Beryl was disappointed to learn that the culprit might not have been her despised husband.

“Do you know where I can find Farrow? Also, her first name would be helpful.” Tilda would track her down.

“Martha, but I have no idea where she could be. I believe she once told me that her family lived in Stepney. Perhaps you could find them?”

“I will try.” Tilda gave her an encouraging smile. “I would like to speak with your staff. Possibly whilst Hadrian reviews your accounts?”

Beryl nodded. “Yes, please talk to Clara. She is nervous about the inquest tomorrow.”

“I’d be happy to,” Tilda replied.

“She’s in her chamber at the moment. I can take you up there.” Beryl looked at the items Hadrian held. “Let me take those too. You can go to the study whilst I escort Tilda upstairs to speak with Clara.” She smiled at him as she took the boxes. The bottle of the tonic balancing on top wobbled.

Hadrian plucked it up and tucked it into the top box. “That will ensure it doesn’t fall as you go up the stairs.”

Beryl’s gaze softened as she smiled at Hadrian. “You are so thoughtful. The ledger is on Louis’s desk.” She turned toward the staircase hall.

Tilda exchanged a look with Hadrian. She wanted to speak with Clara alone. “Beryl, you should join Hadrian in the study. I’m sure he’ll have questions about the ledger.”

Hadrian nodded. “Yes, that would be most helpful.”

Beryl looked back over her shoulder. “Of course. I’ll be down directly.” She turned once more.

Tilda smiled at Hadrian and barely whispered, “Thank you.”

“Good luck,” he replied softly before Tilda followed Beryl. They did not stop at the first floor or the second. They climbed to the uppermost floor with its lower ceilings and narrow corridor.

Beryl glanced back at Tilda over her shoulder. “Clara’s room is at the end.”

When they reached her door, Beryl knocked softly. “Clara, Miss Wren has returned. Is now a good time for you to speak with her?”

“Yes,” came the reply. The door opened a moment later to reveal Clara. She fidgeted with her skirt, and her eyes were downcast.

Tilda felt sorry for her. Finding her employer dead had to be a shock. “Shall I come in?” Tilda asked, giving the young maid a gentle smile.

Beryl held the boxes slightly toward the maid. “Clara, the milliner sent black hats and gloves for me. Wasn’t that kind of him? When you’re feeling up to it, you can come down and unpack them. I know how much you like it when I have new things.”

“I will, Mrs. Chambers,” Clara said, and Beryl departed.

Tilda closed the door. “I understand you’re a bit apprehensive about the inquest tomorrow.”

The maid did appear worried, but also dubious, as if she wasn’t sure if she ought to trust Tilda. She gestured to the chair she’d vacated. “You can sit, if you like.”

“Thank you,” Tilda said. “Where will you sit?”

“I can sit on the bed.” Clara went to perch on the edge, her position that of a bird ready to take flight.