Page 46 of The Scandalous Saga of the White Lady

Chapter 17

Percy searched the house for his father, finally finding him in his chambers in his dressing gown.

“Father, you are not dressed yet? It is almost noon.”

“Late night. I had some business that took me afar and I did not want to spend any money on an inn, so I rode through most of the night to get home.” The Duke studied his son. “What? You look like you have a burr up your arse. What is it?”

“I have some very interesting news,” he said and stepped closer.

Arnold picked up the cup of tea he had been drinking when Percy entered. “Well, what are you waiting for—a gilt edge invitation? Spill.”

“The Viscount Repington has been lost at sea.”

“Lost? Has the ship strayed?”

“No. Lost as in dead.”

“Very well. Boo hoo. There.”

“Father, you are completely missing the point.”

“I must be. What is that to us?”

Percy shook his head. “The Viscount had no sons. It means the daughters will inherit the estate.”

Then Arnold got it. “Ah… Marriageable daughters. Yes, I see what you mean. And any idea what the estate is worth?” he asked, his eyes lighting up.

“There is some considerable amount of land. But as to what the old man was worth, I have no idea. However, he was a bigwig in the East India Company. He is bound to be worth a pretty penny or two, think you not?”

Arnold began to pace. “Excellent. Then this might just save you from having to go to London in search of a bride. Much better to find your match close to home. Which of the daughters do you think?”

“Anna. I happen to know she is quite taken with me. She has been harboring feelings for me for some time.”

“And how do you know this?”

“Harry seems to know.”

“Then you must go over there immediately and pay her a visit. See what you can find out about what the old man was worth. Strike while the iron is hot.”

“Harry thinks I should wait a day or two before I pay my respects. It being only today they learned of their loss.”

“Nonsense. Go. Now. Waste not a moment. Every hungry treasure seeker in the county will be lining up to woo her.”

Percy wagged his head. “If you think it best.”

* * *

Percy had dressed in black and was standing at the Hoskins’ front door. Warrick responded to the knock.

“Mr. Percy, how may I assist you?”

“I have come to pay my respects to Miss Anna,” Percy said maintaining a grave air.

“I assume you have heard the terrible news.”

“I have.”

“The ladies are not receiving at this sad moment. They are requesting privacy for the next couple of days. I am so sorry.” Warrick started to close the door.