“Indeed.” Berdie wanted to say barrels more.
“Right. Well, you can run along then. Goodnight, the daft old thing, is professionally detained. It seems the fire yesterday was ruled arson, and he’s on the investigation as we speak.”
“Arson?” Lillie went white.
“I was afraid of that,” Berdie said under her breath.
Graystone shook his head. “Even the reading of her will has gone pear shaped.” He waved his finger in the direction of the front door. “Good afternoon, then, ladies.”
“Good afternoon.” With as much polish as she could muster, her friend in tow, Berdie left the solicitor’s building.
Once outside she nearly exploded. “Did you get a good look at that picture, Lillie?”
Her comrade-in-arms pulled it out from under her armpit inside her coat. “Oh look, it’s our earring.”
“We’ll have to return that photo, you know.
“But I thought this could help in the case.” Lillie held the picture in full view. “We need to find who did in our Miriam.” She pursed her lips.
“And we will.” Berdie took the picture and dipped her chin. “Now, I didn’t say when we would return it. There’s a time to every purpose, you know.”
Lillie’s cheeks went soft pink. “Odd earring, that.”
“Snap!” Berdie’s pulse kicked up. “Photos are earrings. I’ve been going about this investigation all wrong. I’ve been seeking out the identity of the criminal. Establish the real identity of the victim. That’s first.” Berdie tipped her head. “Miss Livingston’s a wool puller.” She smiled at Lillie. “Work to do, my dear Holmes. Work to do.”
8
Berdie was draped perpendicular across the comfortable sleigh bed in the peaceful manse bedroom, her nightshirt soft against her skin. Hugh sat on the bed edge, his strong fingers making circular movements across Berdie’s throbbing temples.
“This is what comes of no rest and poor nourishment,” Hugh gently scolded.
“I know, love.” Berdie’s words were sincere but barely formed.
“Lillie did a lovely job of rallying the troops for tonight’s second Sunday of Advent caroling, don’t you think?”
“Mmm,” she moaned, her lids getting heavy.
“Making it a tribute to our fallen chorister was a brilliant idea.” Hugh continued the easy motion down Berdie’s neck.
“And discreetly canceling the party after,” Berdie murmured.
“Indeed.” There was a smile in Hugh’s voice as he moved his fingers up into the edge of her scalp. “Lillie was quite chipper this evening.”
“Dr. Meredith...mobile voice message...this afternoon.” Berdie had trouble stringing her words together. “Elgar concert tomorrow night...they have a date.”
“Ah, he seems a fine chap. Good for her.”
Berdie drifted toward the sandman’s domain.
Hugh’s voice sounded distant, “...parish council...and the anonymous benefactor...Miss Livingston’s photo.”
Those last words made Berdie’s eyes pop open. “Wha’?” she slurred and pulled her head upward. Hugh’s fingers stopped.
“Can you sit up, love?” Hugh’s voice was now clear and distinct.
Berdie lifted her torso and rolled her legs across the bed to a sitting position, distinctly close to her husband. He took her hands.
“About Miss Livingston’s photo,” Hugh started.
Berdie almost forgot she had told him about it earlier. Was he going to ask her to return it, give it to Goodnight? She was too relaxed to protest. At least his left eyebrow wasn’t arching.
“Since the parish council has granted three days’ leave, well four, but I have New Believers’ class Wednesday evening—”
“When did that happen?”
“I just told you, darling, this afternoon at the council meeting. I thought we’d holiday at Nethpool House.”
“In Northumberland.” Berdie was awake. “Oh Hugh.”
“Now”—her husband’s voice was firm—“this is a holiday with a mingle of fact-finding. It doesn’t mean hours of endless investigating. It means a considerable rest with a touch of unearthing.”
“Of course.” Berdie shook her fully loosened-up and now pain-free head.
“Room’s reserved. We take the 9:30 train tomorrow morning from Timsley.”
“Oh, Hugh!” Berdie threw her arms around her husband and hugged him tightly. This was exactly what was needed, on both accounts.
While they relaxed their embrace, a noise hit their eardrums that neither wanted to acknowledge. The phone. Ring, ring. Pause. Ring, ring. The couple sat motionless, neither of them speaking, just staring at one another. Finally, Hugh reached across the bedside nightstand and answered. “Vicar.”
Berdie wanted to yank that contraption from the wall.
Hugh handed the mouthpiece to his wife. “It’s for you,” he whispered. “It’s Lillie, and she sounds horrible.”
Berdie spoke into the phone, “Lillie?” She looked at Hugh and shook her head, acknowledging that Lillie indeed was low. “Oh, rough luck. Called out of town for work then, was he?”
Understanding registered in Hugh’s eyes.
“Did he say anything about getting together on another occasion?” Berdie hoped she was encouraging, as knackered as she was. “Oh Lillie, this has been a difficult week. Being exhausted always makes disappointment larger than life.”
Hugh signaled for Berdie’s attention.
“Can you hold just a moment dear?” Berdie gripped her hand over the mouthpiece.
“Are you canny to taking Lillie with us?” Hugh asked.
“Are you?” Berdie countered. “She has been a massive help through everything, and it would do her such good.”
Hugh paused, smiled broadly, and winked. “I’ll book a second room.”
“Lillie,” Berdie said, resuming her conversation, “what would you say to a couple days with Hugh and me at Nethpool House in Northumbria?”
****
The next morning, what with excited packing, errands, and locking up, the threesome nearly missed the train. But once aboard, everyone relaxed. There was little conversation but a great deal of reading and watching the world zip past out the window. The countryside was refreshing. Yorkshire was picturesque, and when they rode past the berns that kiss the North Sea beaches, they were entranced. The sea was restless, and Berdie thought of the all those who called this part of England wild, ragged, or untamed. Those were the very qualities that drew her into the heartbeat of its wonder.
Departing the train, Berdie, Hugh, and Lillie inhaled the sea air with vigor. The wind was brisk as they scrambled to their hired vehicle. Hugh took the wheel while Berdie and Lillie drank in the stone fences, hedgerows, roaming sheep, and occasional homes that edged the narrow road to Nethpool House.
Upon approach, Berdie observed the baronial Arts and Crafts Hall with its plentiful turrets and private valley. She and Hugh had been here several times, but it was a first for Lillie.
When Hugh brought the vehicle to a stop in front of the hall-now-inn, no one had to be coaxed from the car.
“I’m gob smacked,” Lillie confessed and turned a slow spin. “I’m in a fairytale.”
“And you’re the princess,” Hugh offered, unpacking the bags from the boot.
Once inside, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Peach, the colorful owners, welcomed them.
“What’s on offer in the dining room this evening?” Hugh asked.
“Our specialty.” Mr. Peach smiled. “Tweed salmon and fresh grouse.”
“Sounds wonderful.” Berdie beamed and turned to Lillie. “People come from all round to dine at Nethpool, and it’s Michelin rated.”
“Just last night several people motored in from Edinburough,” Mr. Peach boasted.
Hugh hoisted a suitcase. “Well done. What say tea to the room in about twenty minutes?”
“I have fresh border cake with that, Reverend Elliott, and still warm.” Mrs. Peach was a perfect
hostess.
Lillie insisted that she wanted the afternoon for a quiet lie in. But Berdie knew it was Lillie’s way of giving Hugh and Berdie time alone together, and she loved her friend all the more for it. They all agreed to meet in the dining room at half seven for the evening meal.
Hugh and Berdie arrived at the threesome’s reserved table a few moments early. It was easily spotted from the dining room entrance.
Pinecones woven into evergreen and holly wreaths scented the air. Polished red apples sprinkled with nuts in the shell exuded holiday cheer. The arrangements were accented with red and green tartan ribbons and bows. Large hurricane lamps brought a warm gleam to the polished wood that lined the walls. It came together to create a festive holiday touch to the rustic elegance of the room.
Berdie pulled the mysterious Livingston photo from her beaded evening bag that delightfully offset her midnight blue dinner dress. She handed the snap to her husband.
“Yes, that’s no doubt Holy Island,” he affirmed. “Of the four girls, Miriam looks oldest by far, mid-twenties perhaps. The youngest could be eleven, twelve.”
Berdie admired her spouse sitting across from her at the well-set table. The candlelight cast a merry glow on the stemmed glassware and complemented Hugh’s dark tweed jacket. It gave him an air of distinction, even without his collar. He laid the picture on the table.
“Ah, there’s our Lillie,” Hugh announced.
Lillie floated into the room wearing a cream-colored lamb’s wool sweater that enhanced her hazel eyes and deep brunette hair. The matching straight skirt flattered her slender figure.
Hugh stood and pulled out her chair.
“Thanks, Hugh.” She was radiant.
Berdie squeezed Lillie’s hand. “You look beautiful.” She leaned closer to her dearest friend. “You never know in a place like this. A highland baron may come seeking dinner and leave with a bride.”
Lillie laughed. “Indeed. There’s an air here that fairytales come true.”
Hugh lifted a liter of Kilwillee Highland Sparkling Spring Water from an icy bucket and filled their glasses. “I propose a toast,” he said, lifting his glass.
Berdie and Lillie followed suit.
“In God’s good grace, blessings upon this house, upon this table with friends old and new, and blessings”—he looked at Berdie—“on our pilgrimage into truth.”
“Here, here,” Lillie chanted.
“Cheers,” Berdie added.
The clink of stemware glasses sounded like chimes declaring cherished friendship and renewed spirits.
Berdie sipped the sparkling water and enjoyed its fizzy refreshment. She relished a second sip and noticed that though Hugh was already refilling his glass, Lillie hadn’t taken any in. Instead, the woman stared straight on, hand to her chest, eyes larger than the charger plates that adorned the table.
“Lillie?” Berdie tried to read her friend’s expression. It was a mix of shock, panic, and delirium. At the same moment Berdie turned to look in the direction of Lillie’s gaze, Hugh put a voice to the affair.
“I say, look. Isn’t that Dr. Meredith? How remarkable.”
Berdie returned her gaze to Lillie, who now drank the frosty water in gulps.
Immediately Hugh stood and went to the doctor who was chatting with Mr. Peach at the dining entrance. Astonished, Loren Meredith greeted Hugh with a bright smile. The gentlemen shook hands, and then Hugh waved his hand toward the table. The coroner’s astonishment turned to enchantment upon espying the table’s occupants. Hugh continued to speak, but Dr. Meredith’s eyes were upon Lillie.
“Here he comes,” Lillie breathed.
“Baroness, you look smashing,” Berdie assured her dearest ally. “No, you are smashing.”
“Even on an off chance, who’d have thought,” Hugh declared as they arrived at the table.
“Mrs. Elliott.” The doctor tipped his well-groomed head. “Miss Foxworth.” He spoke straight to Lillie. “How fortuitous, and you look...” The handsome man searched for the words. “What an unexpected turn...” He stumbled over his sentiments, apparently captured by Lillie’s glow. “Indeed.”
“It’s a grand evening, and all the more for seeing you,” Lillie responded regally.
Hugh broke into the momentary dazzle. “Our good doctor is seeing to a business matter here in the area. He’s lodging in Berwick.”
Loren adjusted the lapel of his dark sport coat that covered a black turtleneck sweater. The slimming colors couldn’t hide his broad shoulders. “I understand you’re here on holiday.”
“Well, on holiday and fact-finding,” Berdie had to add. “The opportunity just came up last evening, a rather quick push.”
“Yes.” The coroner glanced at Lillie. “My call to do a consultation came quickly as well, as Miss Foxworth can avow.” He was a handsome figure, still, not as tall as Hugh.
“The coroner for this area is on emergency leave, and the lead crime scene investigator, an old university chum, called on my district for help.” He spread his arms. “And here I am.”
“Please dine with us,” Hugh invited.
“Ah,” the man replied, sounding apologetic, “well, you see, I’m meeting my colleague here for dinner tonight and a wrap-up report, an arduous task made less so by salmon fillet.”
Berdie enjoyed his easy rapport.
“Otherwise, baying wolves couldn’t keep me away.”
The gild of Lillie’s radiance took on a bit of tarnish.
“Perhaps you’d be interested in joining us tomorrow for our small adventure.” Berdie spoke with just enough needle to raise curiosity.
“Adventure?”
“Splendid idea,” Hugh agreed.
Berdie handed the Livingston photo to Dr. Meredith. “Lillie stumbled upon this concealed photo while doing a clear out at Lavender Cottage. It would appear the lone Miss Livingston had family after all, and in this area. We mean to get to the bottom of it.”
“As time allows,” Hugh added.
The doctor studied the photo. “This case gets more and more interesting.”
“How’s that?” Berdie asked.
He put the photo down. “Livingston’s autopsy revealed distinct oddities.” The doctor looked toward the entryway and paused. “I see my colleague has arrived.”
“Don’t let us keep you.” Hugh smiled.
Berdie turned to see a tall, thin woman with yellow hair, a briefcase, and years of tangling with the seedy side of humanity upon her face. Her smile revealed the habit of heavy smoking.
“So what time do we leave for our adventure tomorrow then?” Dr. Meredith asked.
“Capital!” Hugh delighted.
“You’re coming then?” Lillie broke into a blinding smile.
“Wouldn’t miss.” Dr. Meredith returned the smile.
“Here, around half past nine.” Hugh shook the gentleman’s hand.
“Berdie’s adventures are surprises in the making,” Lillie informed.
“I look forward to it. Well...” He looked to the waiting friend. “Please excuse me.”
“Of course,” Lillie proffered.
With that, Meredith left to greet his coworker. They were seated on the far side of the dining area but still in plain view of the threesome.
Berdie was pleased both for Lillie and her own sake. The coroner could be of great assistance in searching out clues.
Hugh looked like he was reading her mind. “Jolly well he’s aboard; he’ll be a wonderful asset.” He stopped. “And, Lillie, a fine day’s companion as well of course.”
Menus arrived then entrees were ordered and served by an attentive staff. It was a slow and leisurely meal wherein Berdie relished every taste of gourmand delight, as did her hungry husband. She noticed Lillie seemed to just pick at her food and couldn’t believe her friend was snubbing a superb meal.
“It’s not to your liking?” Berdie asked.
“Well, look at them.” Lillie almost scoffed. “A quiet table for two. That’s hardly busin
ess.”
“Oh my.” Berdie leaned closer. “I’m talking about the food, dear heart. Do you like it?”
“Oh...the food.” Lillie ran her fork over her creamed pheasant. “Yes, it’s some of the best I’ve had.”
“Do I detect a greenish tint about your halo, Lillie?” Hugh lifted a forkful of food.
“Of course not.” Her face had gone crimson.
“She may have his attention, but you have his esteem.” Hugh eased the food into his mouth.
Berdie observed Dr. Meredith coming their way. She gave her husband a gentle tap with her foot under the table.
“Sorry to bother,” the doctor spoke. “Mrs. Elliott, may I see that picture again? I’d like to show it to my colleague. Perhaps she can shed some light on the matter, seeing she’s native to Northumberland.”
“Certainly.” Berdie pulled the photo from her bag and gave it to Dr. Meredith.
He returned to his table. “He’s showing it to her. She’s nodding her head,” Berdie gleefully observed.
“A bit too close to his, may I point out,” Lillie added.
“She’s pointing at something. This could crack it.” Berdie stretched her neck. “She’s examining the back.” She ducked her head as he rose and turned toward their table. “He’s on his way back.” Berdie put a forkful of buttered winter potatoes in her mouth, and Lillie adjusted an errant curl of hair.
Loren returned the photo as his dining partner arose and waited for him at the entrance. “We have a bit more work back at the lab, but I think Roz—Rosalyn—may have given us some helpful information,” he volunteered and put the photograph down. “Must push through.”
“Half nine then,” Hugh reminded.
But the doctor focused on Lillie. “It can’t come quickly enough. Good evening.”
Berdie tried her best to gulp down the mouthful of potatoes. She dabbed her mouth with the linen napkin. “I wonder what his colleague knows?”
She spoke too late. The doctor and his friend were out the door.
“Splendid man,” Hugh commented.
“Go after him, Hugh,” Berdie urged.
“What on earth for? We’ll have the word in the morning, love. Nothing we can do with it tonight anyway.” Hugh was intent on his meal.
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