by Madison Kent
"I agree with you. Even I can see something is very wrong, and the cover-up seems to extend to even my closest friends. I am your ally in this. You can trust me."
Madeline was so delighted by her words that she embraced her for a long moment. She worried that Emily may have asked her to leave.
Charlotte approached them, "Miss, Mr. Scott has arrived. Should I ask him to meet you at the gazebo?"
Madeline replied, "No, thank you, Charlotte. He may wish to bathe and rest before dinner. I will come inside in a few minutes to see him."
"I will see the two of you later," Emily said, as she departed.
Madeline took up her journal again and penned:
I wish I could confide in Emily, but I feel she would tell Edgar everything I say, and he remains suspicious of my actions and intent.
Perhaps a trip to St. Mark's might shed some light on the burglaries. I do think the nuns, although cautious, may be willing to speak about the burglaries.
I think I must consider Matthew, Austin, and Oliver as suspects. I found it disconcerting that none of the men were present when I went into the water. I will speak to Hugh about my concerns―he knows the men well enough to give me his honest opinion.
She began walking towards the estate when Hugh appeared. After her ordeal, her state of anxiety made her want to run and embrace him, but all she did was wave and smile. However, when he was at her side, she took his hands and wept.
Hugh asked, "What is it? You're shaking. Wait here, I'll bring you an absinthe."
She nodded and returned to the gazebo, enjoying the warmth of the sun on her face. It was one constant luxury St. Augustine gave to its residents.
Madeline had not meant to let her emotions unravel, but seeing Hugh's engaging smile weakened her resolve.
He returned, and handing her a drink; he said, "I had planned to entertain you with tidbits of information about my day with the precocious Miss Emma, but I see that will have to wait. Tell me what's wrong?"
Madeline explained what had happened, while Hugh stared at her, shaking his head and periodically saying "Oh, my Lord."
When she finished speaking, he said, "I feel you are as much in danger here, in this picturesque paradise, as you were in the seamy streets of Whitechapel.
"And you feel, Oliver, or one of the others at the pier, may have had their hand in this? Well, that doesn't altogether surprise me. I had refrained from commenting because I could see you liked the lads, but the solicitor side of me felt they were all playing some role. They don't seem to show the true side of themselves. However, in polite society, that's not entirely unusual."
"I don't know who I can trust. If you were not here, I don't believe I would confide in anyone. What do you think it is, Hugh? I mean, why do the police, and others, discount these incidents as accidents?"
"I agree with you. It's peculiar. Until we learn something more, I can't venture a guess right now."
"Well, then tell me about your day with Emma."
"She proved to be entertaining. It was like watching someone on the stage perform. For such a young girl, it is noteworthy that she has developed such a keen sense of deception. I don't think she realizes how obvious it is. Of course, perhaps to her male admirers, it's not. They may wish to think her rhetoric is the truth. Perhaps in my younger days, I may have been gullible enough to believe her. Every man enjoys the attention of a lovely woman."
"What exactly do you mean?"
"Oh, she was over-complimentary, to the point of embarrassment. Her coquettish behavior proved annoying after a short while. However, one could tell she's had a fine education―as she narrated the history of the house―and nuances of several of the paintings."
"Were you able to find out if anything was unusual about the construction area?"
"She seemed hesitant to take me near it―saying her parents were insistent that she avoid the area, for her safety sake. But, after some prodding, and me telling her of my interest in design, she took me to one area.
"There was nothing of particular interest―men working, and the smell of sawdust. However, there was one thing that was curious. One of the servants guarded a cordoned-off area. His job, apparently, nothing more than to see to it that no one entered. When I asked Emma about it, she said that was typical. Many times during her childhood, there were parts of the estate she was forbidden to enter. She explained it away as a peculiarity of her father's for privacy."
Madeline said, "What I wouldn't give to see what's behind that door?"
"It may be nothing more than what Emma said, their extreme need for privacy. Mr. and Mrs. St. Fleur, although eccentric, appear to be happy in their marriage. Her domineering personality seems softened by her husband's congenial manner. He either doesn't mind her behavior or has become accustomed to it. Either way―as far as I can tell―the household runs smoothly. Their biggest fault lies in the indulgence of their daughter. However, Emma mentioned the death of her sister, Storm, and said her father told her he nearly lost his mind after losing his wife and daughter. Mr. St. Fleur told Emma that the only reason he was able to go on was because of her and Corinne."
She commented, "I suppose that is the primary reason for his overlooking both women's shortcomings."
"Yes, he seems a kind man, but, like the two ladies, it's difficult to get to know his true identity."
"I've invited Matthew to come over this evening. But, before he arrives, I'd like to go to St. Mark's to attempt to speak with the nun's there about the burglaries."
"Fine. Poor Matthew, if Davis has it in for him, he'll need a good lawyer," said Hugh.
"I know you can't practice law in the states, but perhaps you could give him some legal advice."
Hugh replied, "I'd be happy too.
"I'll see if Frederick is available to take us to the church."
Chapter Eleven
In the Shadows
On the way, Madeline related Sister Patricia Rose's comments regarding the priests and monks visitation to the bell tower.
She said, "I believe she will be the one to talk to―I did not find the other nuns so willing to reveal any information at all. Sister Rose said it was frowned upon to gossip about the goings on in the church, especially the unpleasant ones."
When St. Mark's came into view, Hugh said, "There is an event of some kind going on―children playing maypole, what a pleasant sight."
"Yes, and you can see it has brought monks from the abbey here. Do you see how concealing the garments are? If someone asked you, could you tell one from another?"
"No, what a perfect disguise one could use while committing a crime. I don't suppose it would be that difficult to obtain a duplicate garment―any good tailor could produce similar apparel."
Madeline suggested, "Or even easier yet, have stolen the clothing, during one of the church robberies."
Arriving at the churchyard, Frederick said,
"Those look like some mighty fine pies on that table, Miss. You can find me at the bakery and wine kisok."
Madeline said, "We won't be long, Frederick―enjoy the refreshments―they do look tempting. We will have to purchase a pie for Emily."
Madeline and Hugh walked the grounds, exchanging pleasantries with the people participating in the charity event.
She attempted to speak with two of the monks, but each just nodded and continued walking.
"Well, that was not surprising, hopefully, the sisters will be more accommodating," she said.
One of the nuns told them that Sister Rose was inside the church. They were about to enter when they observed her dipping her finger into holy water―making the sign of the cross―and exiting the church.
Sister Rose said, "I've wondered if you would return. Come, let's walk together.
"The children are noisy today; it is good to see them at play. Several came from the orphanage. The little ones have told me they look forward to coming here―it is non-threatening―no one expects anything of them, but to be the children they are. They say,
the only other place they feel so loved, is at the St. Fleur's estate.
"Sometimes the wealthy can be munificent in many ways. The St. Fleur's contribute their worldly goods, but also give of their love. What a fine family!"
Madeline said, "I've heard that, for many years, they have substantially been considered a major benefactor for the local orphanage."
The nun replied, "I've been at St. Mark's for ten years, and they have done so for as long as I've been here. Father John Francis has been here twenty years―you may ask him to confirm―but I think it's as long as that.
"Of course, without having family ties, most leave the area, and we never see them again.
"But, I'm assuming you're here to talk about the young man, Matthew, and his involvement in the church thefts."
Hugh said, "Sister, we don't know Matthew very well but feel convinced he is an unlikely suspect. He seems a good man, with no motive for such behavior. He does not come from an affluent family, but they do own a successful tailor shop, I don't he would need to steal to have access to money."
The nun responded, "Yes, I understand how you feel. No one is happy to see any young man go astray, but both Father John and Sister Agnes saw Mr. Matthew. They claim he was carrying the wine bottles from the church―he was accompanied by another man, whose identity was not known."
Madeline was startled by what Sister Rose said, "You're certain, Sister? Wasn't the person seen in the evening darkness―making identification difficult?"
She replied, "It was at night, but Father and Sister Agnes were both on the grounds together when they saw him. I don't think they would have told Inspector Davis unless they were certain. They did not want to impugn the man's reputation.
"Deputy St. John told us about Mr. Jeffrey Lang―they believe it was Matthew who surprised him in the tower and caused him to fall."
Madeline did not think this was true but said nothing, reluctant to draw any conclusions after learning the new information brought to light by the sister.
They thanked her―made their bakery purchases―and returned to Montgomery House.
Madeline said, "I don't know what I'll say to Matthew. If there's to be an honest meeting with him, we'll have to divulge what Sister Rose said. What do you think?"
Hugh replied, "I think there's no way around it. I would let him tell his story first. Of course, assuming what the sister said is the truth. Even having two people witness something doesn't necessarily mean they were correct in their identification. I've had many cases unravel because of the unreliability of what we perceive to see. From what I've seen on the church grounds―there are a significant number of trees that would cast shadows―and unless the men were in full facial view, I believe it would be difficult to identify someone. A good lawyer will probably get Matthew acquitted if that's all the evidence they have.
"You didn't mention whether you intend to go to the police concerning what happened to you?"
She replied, "I've thought about it all day, and I don't see how it would serve any purpose. I think the inspector would say I fell―that the ledge had slime on it―and was slippery. He would then proceed to make me out the fool―again.
"It is a helpless feeling, not being able to enlist the help of the authorities. In that way, the city is unique, and not in a good way."
Hugh commented, "Well, at least, lie down until Matthew comes. You look pale, and I've seen you shiver more than once."
"Falling into the murky water, with a shark or two swimming in the distance, was frightening. I hope I will never go through anything like that again in my life.
"I will have a rest, at least, a short one. It's six, and he will be here at seven."
Hugh said, "I think I will walk the grounds. It's lovely outside, and I think the exercise will clear my head."
Madeline lay against the freshly aired sheets of the bed, and she felt their luscious feel against her body. Another time, she may have slept, but the moment she closed her eyes, she saw herself beneath the water, gasping for air. She sat up, physically becoming ill, as the room spun around in her head. On her bedside table was a basin of water that she used to splash the liquid across her face and neck. She thought, Why would someone wish to harm me? I have not discovered anything of significance. And who knew I was going to be at the pier? The family, staff, and the men at the pier knew―I don't know how to accept that one of them is responsible. Could there have been some juveniles who did this as a dare? No, it must be someone known to me.
Her attempt at rest only resulted in her pacing the room, and periodically looking out the window to see if Matthew was approaching. Unable to relax, she dressed and went out to the veranda.
Madeline saw Charlotte dusting in the hall and requested she bring her an absinthe. She wondered if she continued in this line of work if she would ever fulfill the promise she made to herself that she would abstain from alcohol. Her father's morphine injections had helped her, even calming her hand tremors, but he was not here.
Hugh appeared, saying, "You look refreshed. Are you feeling better?"
"I'm struggling to rid myself of the terrifying feeling that I would remain trapped underwater. I think it may take some time to do that."
Charlotte returned, and Hugh said, "Charlotte, we are expecting a visitor. Would you bring me a bourbon, a bottle of cognac, and a tray of finger sandwiches, to the drawing room?"
Before Charlotte left, Madeline asked, "I did not see the Montgomerys'―have they gone out for the evening?"
"Yes, Miss, Mrs. St. Fleur invited them to dinner."
Madeline said to Hugh, "I wonder if Corinne's plan is to coax Emily and Edgar to talk about our activities."
"From what I know about her, I would say "yes." Emma invited me to dinner tonight, but I declined―the afternoon was all I could tolerate."
"Oh, you should've gone, but I'm sure she'll let you back into her web."
He laughed, then said, "When I was strolling through the area to the back of the estate, I saw something that caught my attention. It appeared someone might have set up a crude camp. There was hay placed on the ground and the remnants of a fire. I had walked at least a half mile back, and it was well-hidden. Of course, it could have been left there for ages, but it's worth looking into, and possibly revisiting during the midnight hour to see if we can catch an intruder."
As she nursed her absinthe, she listened to Hugh speak of Chicago, and the progress made regarding the home he was building. She enjoyed hearing him talk so enthusiastically about his project, and immediately felt better. She thought, I'm so happy you're here, and how handsome you look tonight.
She was finishing her second absinthe when Matthew arrived.
Hugh said, "There's more than one rider. Who's that coming up behind him?"
Dusk had fallen, and Madeline peered to see the additional visitor.
She replied, "It's Austin Bradley, and riding behind him is Oliver. Interesting―he brought his friends with him. I would have thought he would have wanted to keep the conversation more private."
"I suppose if it were me, I'd want my lads in my circle for support," Hugh commented.
"Yes, you're right. I've become overly suspicious. After what happened to me today, I am not as comfortable around the three gentlemen. What if it was one of them who pushed me?"
"I'm here, and you will have someone you trust to observe their behavior and hear what they have to say."
She touched his arm and said, "I don't know what's the matter with me―they're my friends."
"Your first instinct was correct―perhaps―they're your friends.
"I have an idea...," he stopped talking, as the men walked up the stairs to where they sat.
Madeline and Hugh greeted the trio and then made their way to the drawing room.
She lingered behind with Hugh, and said, "What was it you were going to say?"
"You'll see. I think your friends could use a little push to speak freely."
Hugh said nothing more but poured
each of the men a double bourbon―then his meaning was obvious.
At first, the conversation was frivolous, speaking about a boat race they had participated in and laughing about the irascible Inspector Davis, and his complacent deputy.
Then Austin said to Oliver, "So how goes it with your plan to marry Emma?"
He replied, with some contempt in his voice, "I don't know why everyone seems so concerned about my love life? What about you, Austin―I think you've spent more time with the lady fair of late than I have. What are you intentions with Emma? After all, I've heard your father is all but ready to disinherit you if you are not willing to join the powerful St. Fleur family."
Austin said angrily, "So, the gloves have finally come off! The recent talk at my club centered around you―everyone has become aware of your compulsive gambling―and your inability to pay off your debts. You look the fool chasing Emma when everyone knows you're chasing her money. It seems ridiculous that it's Matthew under suspicion."
Austin's meaning was apparent to everyone. Madeline thought, Good heavens, did he just accuse Oliver of murder?
Oliver stood, clenching his fists, and for a brief moment, Madeline believed he might strike Austin. He then said,
"How fortunate that no one has to worry about my debts but me. Rest assured, I don't need Emma's money for that. Gambling is something I do for recreation, no different than your family's political ambitions."
Oliver's reply hit a nerve in Austin, as they both stared at each other―tight-lipped―annoyance evident in both their faces.
Matthew interjected, "Gentlemen, I think everyone agrees that Emma is capable of charming most men, and would prove to be a desirable matrimonial partner. However, I hope we have gathered to discuss Davis, and his ridiculous attempt to discredit my good name."
Austin spoke first, "Yes, and our thoughts on who wished to hurt Madeline."
She said, "I believe these events tie together. Perhaps if we know who has accused Matthew of this crime, we will discover who pushed me."